B's Diner annual Christmas dinner desperately seeking donations
After 14 years in business, B's Diner in Old Strathcona closed its doors in February.
But owner Brenda Der won't say goodbye to her annual Christmas dinner for Edmonton's less fortunate.
However, without donations or sponsorship, she may not be able to host it this year.
"The month of December is a real tough month for me," Der said. "My son who is deceased, his birthday is on Dec 12.
"And with Christmas coming up, I just felt that the community was always aware that this is something we put on every year since 2003.
"So I just figured I'm going to try again. Even though the restaurant isn't around anymore, I'm still here."
The dinner is set for Dec. 15 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Der and her army of volunteers are hoping to feed and help as many people as last year.
"It just fills that void inside me" Der said. "Last year we fed about 600 people and handed out about 200 hampers, complete with turkey." In addition, frozen meals were delivered to veterans and seniors.
Der struggled to host the dinner last year as well, but Edmontonians stepped up to help and she's hoping the same thing happens this year.
"I think it's important for me to do as much as I can for others, because everybody has a story and a lot of time people don't share it," Der said.
"It gives them a chance to educate each other. And that's what I wanted all along, was for people to try and bond a bit and just kind of learn about each other."
Der is looking for donations including turkey, ham, potatoes, and gently used clothing.
For more items that are needed, check Der's Facebook page or the document below.
