The pop up red tents along the banks of the York River are now a familiar sight each Sunday evening in Bancroft. However, as the weekly community meal Friends for Dinner enters its 40th week, organizer Kevin Taylor says the event is gaining numbers—and more resources are needed.
“We’re feeding more people every week, which is amazing—it’s what we want. But the numbers are growing, and some of the donations have dwindled.”
“I’ve never asked before [for help],” Taylor admitted. “But a few of us have been personally covering everything—burgers, condiments, coffee cream, all of it.”
Taylor notes that the group isn’t run or funded by any type of organization, adding that the gathering now often sees over a hundred people enjoying a meal together each week.
Taylor added that there are ‘amazing volunteers’ who currently help make friends for dinner a success, organizing and setting up the tents and tables.
“This is just really being run by a whole bunch of people who care.”
The free community meal has become a reliable and celebrated gathering place for the community. But, Taylor says he’s looking ahead with concern, especially as the group approaches summer and fall—traditionally times when needs increase and resources thin out.
“Friends for Dinner is awesome,” he said. “The people, the sense of community—it’s beautiful. But we’ve never really asked for help before, and now, honestly, we could use a little.”
Those who want to support Friends for Dinner can do so by donating food, money or supplies like propane—or even things people might already have in their cupboards.
“You know, jars of pickles and beets, stuff like that, those are things that a lot of people might even have in their own pantry that they could just bring and it wouldn’t cost them financially.”
Every bit helps says Taylor, adding a great way to contribute is just to come out to the event and, if possible, bring a dish to share.
For more information or to get involved, contact Kevin Taylor or reach out to the group through social media here.
