CHS Community Dinner held for 15th year
Jade Hasseman and Aria Gaumer serve meals at the Coshocton High School Community Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 15. Jen Jones | Beacon
COSHOCTON – Fifteen years ago, John Mattison approached Cathy Waibel and asked her to help with a project – and the CHS Community Dinner began. This year, the meal was held on Thursday, Nov. 15 at Coshocton High School.
“I sat down with the phone book and started calling restaurants about food, then calling businesses for donations,” said Waibel. She starts planning the dinner soon after school starts each year. “We have so many students and staff that volunteer their time to help prepare and serve the meal. My Boy Scout Troop (Troop 403) comes and helps clean up every year.”
Waibel said the cafeteria staff helped prepare 26 turkeys and other sides for the meal. The meal included turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green beans, roll, cupcake and a drink. It was free for everyone. “I just hope everyone really enjoys the food.”
Grant Fauver, CHS Principal, said everything was donated for the meal. “We have great community and business support – they don’t turn us down when we ask.” The family consumer science class prepares the desserts. The decorations are created by art students and other students help to decorate. “All of this is done for us to give back to the community. It just gives me chills talking about it.”
Each year, 500 – 600 meals are served in three shifts. Everyone is encouraged to make reservations, but walk-ins are always welcome. “We seat the people who made reservations first,” said Fauver, “and as seats become empty, we seat the walk-ins.” Almost 350 reservations were made for this year.
Jade Hasseman has been helping with the meal for four years. “It’s nice to be able to make sure everyone gets a Thanksgiving dinner, since some people might not have one. It’s fun to see people from the community and helping others and seeing smiles.”
Also helping at the dinner was Madelyn Nelson. This is her fourth year to help with the meal, too. “It’s important to help people get a Thanksgiving meal and to give back to the community. Lots of clubs get involved with this event. It makes me really proud to be from CHS.”
Helping for the third time was Aria Gaumer. “I like helping people and it looks good on college applications. It’s fun to be in clubs where you can meet others and help people.”
Category: Education
