On December 25, 2023, community members in Santa Cruz gathered at the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building for the annual Christmas Community Dinner. This cherished event, held on a mix of sunny and slightly stormy afternoon, welcomed individuals of all ages to share in holiday festivities and enjoy a traditional meal.
For nearly four decades, local veterans have organized this free holiday dinner, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and sponsors, including the Veterans Memorial Building Board of Trustees. Trevor Hutchison, the event’s organizer, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “Without community participation, none of this happens,” he stated. Hutchison encouraged attendees to embrace the spirit of giving, highlighting how even a simple act, like receiving a meal, can lead to opportunities for others.
The need for community support is particularly pressing as many face challenges with rising grocery and rent costs. Hutchison recounted a touching story from the Holy Cross Food Pantry, where a grateful recipient expressed how the assistance he received made a significant difference in his life. “He said if we weren’t there, he’d be dead,” Hutchison shared. This man’s success in finding a job three months later served as a powerful reminder of the impact of community support.
As the doors opened at the Veterans Memorial Hall, a long line of eager attendees formed down Front Street. Volunteers like Brian Shulman, who greeted guests at the event, reflected on the fulfillment of participating in such a meaningful occasion. “When I volunteer for Thanksgiving, it’s a grateful, thankful experience,” Shulman remarked. “For Christmas, it’s nice to have somewhere to go and something to be merry about.”
The gathering was not only about food but also about connection. James Sclar, a staff member and Marine veteran, expressed joy at seeing so many community members coming together. “We have an incredible kitchen crew and amazing volunteers,” Sclar noted. “This is their pride and joy. They love doing this.”
Attendees like James Michael Gonzales cherished the opportunity to reconnect with friends. “It’s great to see all the folks that are usually outside, inside,” he said, appreciating the warmth of the gathering. His sentiments echoed through the hall, illustrating the significance of the event in fostering community spirit.
Among the volunteers was Steve Schweikart from Morgan Hill, who embraced his role as the official “coffee guy.” He and his family chose to forgo their own Christmas celebrations to contribute to the community dinner. “We wanted to do something that we could feel good about,” Schweikart explained. His involvement in serving coffee was driven by a desire to uplift attendees with a warm beverage, creating a friendly atmosphere.
The Christmas Community Dinner represents more than just a meal; it embodies the spirit of togetherness and support within Santa Cruz. For more information about the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building and upcoming events, visit veteranshall.org.
