Mossman Community Centre will be buzzing with festive generosity on Christmas Day when 150 of region’s needy are treated to Christmas lunch.

For the third year, the Douglas Shire Community Services Association Inc (Mossman Community Centre) will host a lunch for those who are socially isolated, experiencing financial hardship or just want to be with other people on Christmas Day.

The lunch has become a proud tradition ever since Douglas Shire Community Services Association Inc’s past president, Christine Price, saw a need in 2009 for the service and set about organising the first Christmas Day lunch - a barbecue at Mossman Community Centre.

The event received overwhelming support from the community and it was decided to make it an annual event.

The following year, Father Paul Beasley of the Anglican Church volunteered its services and in conjunction with the President of the Douglas Shire Community Services Association (DSCSA), lunch was served to 120 people and volunteers in the Shire Hall on Christmas Day 2010.

“Christmas can be a difficult time for many people due to financial hardship or being away from friends and family support networks,” Community Development Officer, Jill Bradley, said.

“By offering a place to share a meal and a chat on Christmas Day, we hope to make a difference for many people.”

This year’s lunch will cater for up to 150 people and the menu will include fresh seafood, ham, chicken, salads, Christmas cake and soft drinks.

The hall and tables will be decorated and music will be provided, and Father Christmas will visit to give presents to children aged 13 and under.

Ms Bradley said Mossman Community Centre was pleased to be involved with this event and its members were very appreciative of the generosity of the community, which complemented the many volunteers, businesses and community members who helped bring the event together.

If you would like to volunteer some time either on December 23, 24 or 25, please contact the Mossman Community Centre on 4098 2005 or Fr Paul Beasley on 4098 2672. 

Or, if you would like to attend the free Christmas lunch on Sunday 25 December from 11am, all are welcome. 

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