Gilford Methodist Church plans free Christmas dinner

GILFORD — An annual tradition in the Lakes Regions will continue this Christmas Day at the First United Methodist Church in Gilford. Every year for the last 18 years the church congregation and many community friends have served a hot holiday meal for those people in the local area that might be alone or in need. The tradition started with one family, The Keysar's of Laconia, who felt the holiday had lost some meaning to their family. The Keysar's wanted to give something to their neighbors and working with the church, were able to organize the first annual Free Christmas Dinner.

The day begins at noon with a fellowship hour or carols, goodies and merriment. At 1 p.m. the dining room doors open to a ham dinner with all the trimmings. Candied carrots, potatoes, rolls, and homemade pies are just part of the meal prepared by the 40 plus volunteers who work on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to get the dinner on the tables. Many local families come to work and others help with monetary donations.

All are welcome at this meal regardless of faith or need and seats are still available for this year's feast. Reservations are necessary so that the cooks can plan and purchase ample food for all. They may be made by contacting dinner chair, Jessica Keysar Alward at 520-3910 or by email at alward@metrocast.net.

Those looking to help out with the event can also contact the Alward family to volunteer. Help is needed for three shifts. Dec. 24th at 2 pm for set up and prep. Dec. 25th at 12:30 to serve and finally at 1:30 on the Christmas Day for cleanup.