Rescue Mission’s Christmas Gift to Community: ‘Warm Presence’, Hot Meals for 1,030 People

(Utica, NY) Christmas Day was full of fun and cheer for some 1,030 people who received hot meals and gifts from the Rescue Mission, reported the Rev. Bill Dodge, executive director. But the real Christmas gift was being able to offer a “warm presence” through a friendly smile and a listening ear; he said.

Another special gift, he said, was the more than 200 volunteers who showed up to help prepare, serve and clean up after the holiday meal.

In fact, the Rev. Dodge noted, “one of the volunteers came in and said he felt compelled to donate his coat to someone in need. He literally took the coat off his back. And sure enough, a little later in the meal, a coatless man came in shivering from the cold. We realized this was the reason the volunteer was inspired to donate his coat. Amazing!”

In addition, the Rescue Mission handed out stuffed animals, socks, hats, scarves and gloves. The Rev. Maria Scates from Johnson Park Center was on hand to help distribute the gifts.

“The Christmas spirit was strong today in the Utica area,” the Rev. Dodge said. “The atmosphere was festive and warm, and everyone, volunteers and guests alike, was having a great time.”

Of the 1,030 meals provided, “we served 410 meals in our dining rooms, and we delivered 620 meals to the homebound,” he said. “That’s 100 more deliveries than last year. About 580 meals were delivered within the City of Utica and 40 to surrounding areas such as Whitesboro, Clinton, New Hartford, Herkimer and Marcy.”

The meal, which immediately followed an 11 a.m. religious service, consisted of baked ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mixed vegetables and pie for dessert. Some 70 turkeys, 40 hams, 350 lbs. of potatoes, 300 lbs of stuffing, 30 gallons of gravy, 200 lbs. of mixed vegetables, 40 lbs. of cranberry sauce and over 150 pies made up the 1,030 meals provided at the mission.

The annual Christmas meal was provided free of charge.

“It is only because of the generosity of our donors in the Mohawk Valley that these meals could be served today,” said Rev. Dodge. Those who wish to make a contribution may do so online at www.uticamision.org or by calling the office at 735-1645.

Each year, the Rescue Mission serves over 130,000 meals to the hungry, provides over 20,000 nights of lodging and care to those facing homelessness, and assists over 1,000 men and women in their battle against substance abuse.

Rescue Mission’s Christmas Gift to Community: ‘Warm Presence’, Hot Meals for 1,030 People

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