Christmas Dinner

Scranton, Lackawanna County- It was an unexpected moment when volunteers from Scranton's largest free Christmas dinner handed the event's sponsor, Bob Bolus, a plaque as a token of their appreciation. Doug Miller volunteers his time at the dinner every year. He tells Eyewitness News, "It's from all the volunteers. On behalf of all the volunteers throughout the last 18 years, who come down, and we appreciate everything Bob does in the community." They're not the only ones grateful for Bob's kindness. Thousands of people pour into the basement of St. Lucy's Church basement every year to enjoy a hot, holiday meal. Some have been coming since the dinner first started 18 years ago, while others are arriving for the very first time. Young or old, poor or rich, Bob says this Christmas dinner is for everyone! While some people come to the dinner just to enjoy time with friends and a delicious meal, people like Dora Digregrio rely on this meal. She brought her entire family and is taking home an additional seven to ten platters home for her children and grandchildren. Dora has been coming to the dinner since it first began. She enjoys spending her holiday here, and it has become a holiday tradition. Dozens of volunteers, hundreds of pounds of food, months of preparation and thousands of hungry bellies later, this Christmas dinner remains one, big success.