The Columbia Gearheads, a local car lover group, is preparing once again to reach out into the community with the fourth annual Christmas lunch to be held next Saturday, Dec. 12 beginning at noon at the Expo Center.
Stacey Cavanaugh, one of the organizers, said Thursday morning that the free meal actually started by accident.
“I was wanting to do something to help in the community and the next thing I knew people wanted to join in and help,” Cavanaugh said.
The Columbia Gearheads host a monthly cruise-in the first Saturday of every month with the exception of October. Car enthusiasts from all over the area bring their vehicles for the monthly event. The vehicles can be old or new, a beat-up truck or a tricked out car, the event is to allow people to get together over the common interest of vehicles.
At the cruise-in being held this Saturday from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., there will be a donation box if anyone wants to make a monetary donation or drop off food for the luncheon. Cavanaugh said the menu will consist of ham, turkey, dressing, dumplings, green beans, roll and dessert. She asks if anyone wants to donate an uncooked ham or turkey to give it to her before Dec. 9. She said they have someone who has a large smoker so the meat does not have to be cooked, they will do it.
However, if you would like to prepare a dish, she asks that the food be delivered to the Expo Center by 11:30 a.m. next Saturday.
Since the luncheon first began, Cavanaugh said the number of plates of food distributed has increased with more than 500 plates given away last year.
She said people can eat their plates there or take them to go, it was up to the individuals. If necessary, she said plates can also be delivered to shut-ins and others in need.
One does not have to belong to the Columbia Gearheads to help and/or participate. It is open for everyone. Anyone can help with preparing the meal and fixing the plates. Cavanaugh said if anyone is interested in helping serve to be at the Expo Center by 11 a.m. Saturday.
“We have had a lot happen in our small town this past year. A lot of people have family, friends and loved ones. A lot of people have lost jobs this year, it has been hard,” Cavanaugh said.
For more information, go to the Columbia Gearheads 4th annual Christmas Day Lunch event Facebook page or contact Cavanaugh at (601) 810-7123.
The lunch will be at the Columbia Expo Center Saturday, Dec. 12, from noon until 3 p.m.
