On December 25, 2023, community members in Santa Cruz gathered at the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building to celebrate the holiday season with a traditional Christmas meal. The annual Christmas Community Dinner, which has been a staple for nearly four decades, provided free meals to those in need, thanks to the dedication of local veterans and an extensive network of volunteers.
Community Spirit Shines Bright
The event, organized by Trevor Hutchison, showcased the spirit of collaboration within the community. Hutchison emphasized the essential role of community participation, stating, “Without community participation, none of this happens.” He encouraged attendees to contribute, highlighting the importance of mutual support in times of need.
Many families are currently facing financial hardships, with rising costs for groceries and housing. Hutchison noted how crucial the hot meals and food distributions from places like Holy Cross Food Pantry are for the community. He recounted a touching encounter with an individual who expressed gratitude for the assistance provided, citing that the support enabled him to focus on securing employment. “Three months later, he told me he got a job. It was the greatest moment of celebration that you could possibly have,” Hutchison shared.
A Tradition of Giving
As the sun peeked through the clouds, a long line of eager attendees formed outside the Veterans Memorial Hall, waiting for the doors to open. Volunteers like Brian Shulman, who greeted guests, have become familiar faces at these events. Shulman described volunteering during the holiday season as a profoundly rewarding experience, stating, “When it comes to Christmas, it’s nice to have somewhere to go and something to be merry about.”
Military veteran and staff member James Sclar expressed his pride in the efforts of the kitchen crew and volunteers, noting, “This is their pride and joy. They love doing this. And people are stoked to get some food and have something to do on Christmas.”
For many attendees, the community dinner was more than just a meal. James Michael Gonzales, a Santa Cruz resident, shared that his favorite part was reconnecting with friends. “It’s great to see all the folks that are usually outside, inside,” he said, acknowledging the importance of the communal experience.
Among the volunteers was Steve Schweikart, who traveled from Morgan Hill with his family to assist with the event. Taking on the role of the official “coffee guy,” Schweikart explained how the decision to volunteer stemmed from a desire to shift focus from traditional holiday activities. “We were looking for something different this year,” he said. “It’s especially fulfilling to be here with my family. Being together makes a big difference.”
As the community shared laughter and meals, the annual Christmas Community Dinner at the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building highlighted the importance of togetherness and support during the festive season. For more information about the ongoing efforts of the Veterans Memorial Building, visit veteranshall.org.
