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Column: The meaning of community

I am in awe of how this a community meal can bring our community together.
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Some of the 14 volunteer drivers were lined up in front of Knox Hall on Sunday evening, ready to deliver a fresh hot meal to a city resident

WEYBURN - What started out as an occasional community meal at Knox Hall over the winter months, has morphed into what is now referred to as the Sunday Night Community Hot Meal program.

COVID-19’s restrictions ended the in-person gatherings, so organizers restructured the program to include home delivery.

From November through March for the past two years, volunteers have made, packaged and delivered hundreds of meals to the community. Meals consist of soup or chilli, buns, dessert and a piece of fruit.

I love this program.

Whether I’m making chilli, delivering meals or helping in the kitchen, I am in awe of how this brings our community together.

Families, individuals, churches and organizations are participating by providing food and donations. Each week 12 to 14 drivers deliver the meals. Last Sunday, we delivered 102 meals!

John and Jane Smith have done an outstanding job of organizing the program. Thank you for all the time you two invest!

Thank you also to everyone who has made soup, baked cookies or buns, or provided food. Your culinary skills are appreciated!

To everyone who has worked in the kitchen, assembling and packing meals, thank you for your willing hands.

Thank you to the drivers who make sure the meals are delivered safely. Your time is valued.

Thank you to those who receive meals, for new friends and good conversations. I especially enjoy the visits with our seniors when I’m delivering. The smiles are priceless.

The English-language word “community” derives from the Old French comuneté, which comes from the Latin communitas - public spirit.

The “public spirit” of Weyburn is alive and well.

(Sunday, March 27 is the last meal delivery until fall. With the continued support of indivduals, churches and the community, this program will resume in November.)