There are so many people who spend the holiday’s alone and forgotten, and it breaks my heart,” says Graysville resident Chuck Wolfe. “I learned at a very young age to help people in any way you can. I have a passion for helping others.” Chuck is a proud father to nine children and three stepchildren – the “Wolfe Pack” as they call themselves.
“I used to host all the holiday dinners for my large family. Over time they have moved away or had families of their own which led me to cooking much less. I know several people who spend Christmas alone, so I came up with an idea to help others share in the Christmas spirit together by hosting a Christmas dinner for everyone and anyone in need of a warm meal and companionship Christmas day.”
Chuck had no way of knowing that his one selfless act to help others would turn into something so powerful. As a member of the Eagles Club “people helping people” is a motto Chuck and all Eagles members strive to live by in their day to day lives. “The turnout that we had our first year hosting a Christmas dinner was shocking!” says Chuck.
Alongside his close friend and Eagles President, Donna Mae, the duo was able to start something amazing. “We learned over the years that there were still many people who needed a meal, but couldn’t attend the dinner. That’s when I knew something had to be done to make sure no one was left out.”
This led to offering Christmas dinner delivery, which many are grateful for. This annual event is in its fourth year. Chuck and his crew of volunteers will start cooking at 4 am Christmas day and start their first delivery around 11 am. Each dinner will consist of ham and turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, macaroni salad, noodles, stuffing, gravy, rolls, pudding cups, and cookies.
Volunteers are always needed to help serve, put together meals for delivery, and to deliver meals. Gas cards are provided, if feasible, for those who help with delivery. “We also try to deliver to local nursing homes for the staff who are working on Christmas,” Chuck says.
“Our goal is to make sure that no one is turned away and that everyone who needs a hot meal on Christmas has one.”
Chuck adds that without the generosity of the many volunteers, business and organizations, none of this would be possible. “A big ‘thank you’ to all of our sponsors: Eagles Club, Miller Home Health Care, Sabrina Ellis and family, who provides gifts for the children, Carmichaels Shop N’ Save and Fredericktown meat market. Donations from the state of Texas and California have also been received from generous people with Greene County roots.”
Fundraising events are held throughout the year, with the first fundraiser taking place on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2022. Stop by the Eagles Club for an afternoon of bingo starting at 2pm. Proceeds from the event will be allotted to next year’s Christmas dinner and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to other local charities and organizations.
Anyone who wishes to place a Christmas dinner delivery can call Kim at 724-344-5527. No questions are asked with the exception of: how many meals are needed, and if there are children. “We try to make sure every child receives a gift.” Doors to the Eagles Club will remain open until the last person leaves on Christmas day. “We are still in need of turkeys, hams, and desserts. Last year we went through 24 turkeys and 20 hams!” adds Chuck. There is no order deadline, but the earlier the better.
“I’m certain my children will make sure this continues for years to come. Each year we see a rise in the number of meals and each year we have more support. I couldn’t end this without saying we give our Lord all the praise, without Him we could do nothing.”