Ottawa's Mission serves record 17,800 meals at annual holiday meal

The Ottawa Mission serving thousands of holiday meals on Dec. 15, 2024. (Katelyn Wilson/CTV News Ottawa)

Christmas came early for thousands of people on Sunday as The Ottawa Mission served up its annual holiday meal.

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"I know what it's like not to be able to have Christmas dinner and the idea that we here at the Ottawa Mission can make that happen for so many people, it makes it so special," said chef Ric Allen-Watson.

It's a meal many look forward to each year as the need continues to grow. Officials say 17,789 meals were served on Sunday and through the Mission's food truck program last week, a record number.

Last year, the Mission served about 17,400 meals.

"It's amazing that there's so much giving here, and I am really grateful to be here," said client Steve Kildare.

It's a huge feat accomplished by dozens of volunteers and includes more than 800 turkeys, 3,000 pounds of potatoes, 2,000 pounds of vegetables and 150 gallons of gravy.

"The cooking started when we got here at 4 a.m. but we cook the turkeys, debone them and cook them ahead of time, pack them and freeze them and pull them out and slice them," Allen-Watson said.

The event brings a sense of community and gratitude this time of year. 

"It's all about being together and the joy of Christmas and just supporting the Mission and the Mission supporting us," said Gerald Thornton.