WATERTOWN (October 10, 2012)—They’re back! The new season of Dollar Dinners is in full swing with an earlier start, new locations, new hosts and more scheduled dinners than last year.
The 2012-13 Dollar Dinner features 34 dinners hosted by 14 churches and organizations including dinners at the Brownville United Methodist Church, outside of the city of Watertown.
“Dollar Dinners bring people together from all walks of life to share a meal,” said Erika Flint, executive director. “These meals bring our community together and we’re excited to see this program grow and raise awareness that our programs help people across the county. It makes sense that we hold these dinners throughout the county and we hope to build on this with our remaining open dates this year and in coming years.”
Started in 2006, the dinners have now grown to draw about 10,000 people to more than 30 dinner locations each season. The hot meal is just $1, or free with coupons available for individuals and families using the Watertown Urban Mission Food Pantry. The price is low so it is affordable, but these dinners are intended for everyone, without regard to income.
“The Watertown Urban Mission empowers neighbors to help neighbors rise above life’s struggles,” Erika added. “We are so grateful for the support of each church and organization that hosts these dinners. So many wonderful volunteers give of themselves to make these events a huge success each and every week.”
More than 600 volunteers participated in the Dollar Dinners last year. This year, 14 churches and organizations have signed up to participate in the program with 34 meals currently scheduled for Sundays and Wednesdays into April. The first dinner was on Sept. 16th and dates are available for organizations and churches interested in being a part of the program.
The next dinner is on Sunday, Oct. 14th at Brownville United Methodist Church, 333 Brown Boulevard, Brownville, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
In addition to the Brownville UMC, dinners already scheduled this year will be hosted by All Souls Unitarian Universalist, Asbury United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First United Methodist Church, Jefferson Community College, Jefferson Leadership Institute Class, Knights of Columbus Watertown Council 259, LiFE Home-School Group, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Trinity Episcopal, and the YMCA.
Find the complete schedule here.
