Morning Sun

TAKEOUT CHEER

Despite COVID changes, Alma Elks will provide free Christmas dinners in 10th year

- By Greg Nelson gnelson@medianewsg­roup.com

COVID-19 pandemic restrictio­ns have played havoc causing the cancellati­on of numerous traditiona­l holiday events throughout the country.

But one will go on, although not in its usual form.

The Alma Elks Lodge will once again be offering free Christmas dinners, but this year all meals will be of the takeout variety.

This will be the 10th year the club has held the event.

In the past, when in-person dining was allowed, more than 400 meals were served each year.

In 2020, however, lodge members are sure what to expect.

That’s why those who want meals are asked to call a day or two in advance to place their orders if possible.

Dinners will be served drivethru style from noon to 4 p.m. Christmas Day. Meals can be picked up at the rear kitchen door.

Those who place orders should also leave a time when they plan on picking them up.

Upon arrival they should call again and the meals will be brought out to their vehicles. The lodge is asking that face coverings be worn when picking up meals.

The menu will feature ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, roll and dessert.

Lodge members will also offer delivery to the surroundin­g area.

Although there is no cost for the dinners, donations are always appreciate­d.

For those who don’t call ahead there still may be some meals available Christmas day, but depending on the demand food may run out.

To order, call 989- 463-1400. Leave your name, number of meals needed, phone number and the time you would like to pick up the dinners. Those who would like them delivered should also include their address.

 ?? ABOVE, BELOW:
MORNING SUN FILE PHOTO ?? Pictured are volunteers providing free Christmas Day dinners at the Alma Elks Lodge in previous years. Though scenes like this are not to be expected for the 2020 event due to coronaviru­s restrictio­ns, the Elks Lodge is still dedicated to its mission of feeding the hungry during the holidays; instead of on-site dining, takeout orders can be placed instead.
ABOVE, BELOW: MORNING SUN FILE PHOTO Pictured are volunteers providing free Christmas Day dinners at the Alma Elks Lodge in previous years. Though scenes like this are not to be expected for the 2020 event due to coronaviru­s restrictio­ns, the Elks Lodge is still dedicated to its mission of feeding the hungry during the holidays; instead of on-site dining, takeout orders can be placed instead.
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