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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Friday, December 19, 2025

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In a heartwarming community tradition, the Rivers Lions Club has once again opened its doors, delivering a wonderful Christmas dinner to seniors in Rivers. Despite the brutally cold weather that accompanied the holiday season, the club successfully hosted its annual turkey dinner, which has become a cherished event for many locals.

After six long years of takeout and delivery only due to health and safety concerns, 2025 marked a significant return to the beloved sit-down dinner format held in the spacious Legion hall. This year, the Lions Club served a remarkable 75-80 guests in the hall, while an additional 69 dinners were either delivered or picked up by seniors who preferred to enjoy their festive meal in the comfort of their own homes.

The dinner featured a classic menu of turkey with all the traditional trimmings, ensuring that guests enjoyed a feast that reflected the season's spirit of giving and community togetherness. While the meal is offered free of charge, the Lions Club always welcomes donations, which are essential for continuing this generous initiative year after year.

Adding an extra touch of magic to the gathering, Santa Claus made a surprise visit to the diners in the hall. His cheerful presence brought smiles and laughter, embodying the true essence of the holiday spirit. Seniors delighted in sharing their holiday wishes and receiving warm greetings from Santa, making the evening not just a meal but an unforgettable experience.

The Rivers Lions Club is committed to keeping this tradition alive for many years to come.

Their dedication extends beyond providing meals; it represents a commitment to nourishing the spirit of the community. Events like this foster connections between generations, strengthen community bonds, and remind everyone of the importance of looking out for one another, especially during the holiday season.

The success of this year’s Christmas supper reflects the hard work and selfless spirit of the many volunteers from the Rivers Lions Club. Their efforts ensure that seniors, who often face isolation during the holidays, have the opportunity to enjoy the company of others and partake in a festive meal. The planning and preparation involved—from shopping for ingredients to cooking, serving, and cleaning—demonstrate the club's unwavering commitment to their community.

Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive. Many seniors expressed heartfelt gratitude for the meal, the warm atmosphere, and the chance to reconnect with friends and neighbours. Such feedback not only highlights the importance of the event but also encourages the Rivers Lions Club to continue their efforts in support of the town’s seniors.

As the holiday season wraps up, the Rivers Lions Club looks forward to future gatherings and efforts that reinforce the spirit of compassion and community. The memories created during this year's Christmas dinner will linger long after the last dish was cleared, serving as a testament to the power of community and the importance of caring for one another.

Rivers Lions Club Hosts Annual

Christmas Dinner for Seniors

By Carolyn Phillips