Over eight years ago The Vineyard Church in St Albans launched FEED, a local community food bank, which has grown to become one of the largest in the county. With this, they also hold an annual Christmas Meal to be held on Christmas Day, to give an opportunity for those less fortunate to enjoy the festive season. For 2017, FBDC were thrilled to work alongside such a great event, to assist in the best Vineyard Christmas yet.

Susan Pieterse, founder of FBDC, was at the forefront of food planning with the help of the chefs & volunteers from Vineyard. FBDC and local business Smoke House Deli combined efforts to produce, prepare and cook the feast with final touches put together at the Church, where the event took place. One of the largest events to date with a full capacity of 250 RSVPs, from all walks of life; whether it’s a struggling family or someone elderly not wanting to be lonely this winter. So, with all these people in need, it meant all hands-on deck to let the feast go off without a hitch.

The Vineyard pulled together around 40 volunteers in total; from the FBDC team and the St Albans community to support, aid and donate towards the big day.

The day was an absolute success with all the support, love and generosity of everyone involved. Barbie, a member of the Church stated, “Gigantic congratulations to the entire Kitchen Department, who obviously put in a lot of effort into the meal. Everything about the entire day was perfect!”.

Along with a lavish Christmas meal, it was accompanied by a selection of entertainment including; a cinema room for festive films, music and games for all ages to enjoy. Finally, the day ended with the distribution of gifts and goodie-bags for everyone to further continue in the festive spirit.

With responses from a family of guests, “Thank you for such a wonderful Christmas, I can’t remember the last time I had such a lovely day… it was wonderful beyond words”, you know that you have brought people happiness and made their Christmas.