On Christmas Day hundreds of senior citizens will enjoy socializing and a Christmas dinner by volunteers and former police officers.
It was started in 1977 by Kansas City police officer, co-founder by Richard White and Major Richard “Dick” Fletcher.
"Most police officers I worked with, most police officers I know are very community minded, they care about the people," said White. "They've got a soft spot. They look a little hard on the outside but on the inside they are soft, loving people."
Anyone who is more than 60 years old and would otherwise be alone on the holidays is welcome to share a Christmas meal at three locations.
Kansas City (North)
Open Door Bible Baptist Church
4300 NE Parvin Rd.
Kansas City, MO 64117Kansas City (South)
St. Peters
6400 Charlotte St
Kansas City, MO 64131Independence
Christ United Methodist Church
14506 E 39th St South
Independence, MO 64055
What he saw in his time as a police officer is that senior citizens would sometimes call on the holidays with complaints about prowlers. He said when he got there, he didn't see anything like that. What the callers were really looking for was companionship.
In 1977 the dinner started with 35 people and now they serve 800. Volunteers take turns sitting and talking with people and serving food.
"It's gave me an opportunity to be able to show what being a Christian is," said White.
He said that it costs about $8,000-$9,000 last year to feed anyone.
If you're willing to help you can donate here.
They also are selling raffle tickets for one dollar. One of the prizes is for two airline tickets to anywhere in the world. This is the 39th year of the Christmas meal and it feels like those who attend are family.
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Belinda Post can be reached at belinda.post@kshb.com.
