On December 25, 2023, community members of all ages came together at the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building to celebrate the annual Christmas Community Dinner. This cherished event, held on a day marked by both sunshine and scattered storms, has been a tradition for nearly four decades, providing a free holiday meal to those in need. The dinner is made possible through the dedication of local veterans, a network of volunteers, and support from organizations like the Veterans Memorial Building Board of Trustees.
Trevor Hutchison, the event organizer, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “Without community participation, none of this happens,” he stated. Hutchison highlighted that many in the area are struggling with rising costs for groceries and rent. The hot meals served at the dinner and the free produce bags from local distribution sites, such as Holy Cross Food Pantry, can significantly impact those facing food insecurity.
Hutchison shared a poignant story of an individual he met at the food pantry who expressed gratitude for the support provided. “He said if we weren’t there, he’d be dead. Three months later, he told me he got a job. It was the greatest moment of celebration,” he recalled.
Volunteers Bring Holiday Spirit
As guests began to fill the hall, a long line stretched down Front Street, eager for the warmth of community and a festive meal. Many volunteers return year after year to assist at the Veterans Memorial Building, including Brian Shulman, who welcomed guests at the event. “When I volunteer for Thanksgiving, it’s a grateful, thankful experience,” Shulman remarked. “At Christmas, it’s nice to have somewhere to go and something to be merry about.”
James Sclar, a staff member at the Veterans Memorial Building and a Marine veteran, echoed the sentiment of community joy. “We have an incredible kitchen crew and amazing volunteers. This is their pride and joy,” he said, noting the excitement among attendees for the hot meals on offer.
Among those enjoying the festive atmosphere was Santa Cruz resident James Michael Gonzales, who expressed that the best part of the dinner was reconnecting with friends. “It’s great to see all the folks that are usually outside, inside,” he stated, acknowledging the importance of the gathering.
Family Volunteering for a Meaningful Holiday
One family, the Schweikarts from Morgan Hill, took an unconventional approach to their Christmas by volunteering at the dinner. Steve Schweikart, designated as the event’s “coffee guy,” shared how they decided to prioritize giving back over traditional celebrations this year. “We were looking for something different. We wanted to do something that we could feel good about, instead of just focusing on stuff,” he explained.
Steve’s wife, Shantell, and their teenage daughter, Reese, joined him, highlighting the family’s commitment to service. He noted that serving coffee added a personal touch to the experience. “Just standing here as people are coming in and handing people coffee is, for me, pretty awesome,” he said.
The event not only provided nourishment but also fostered a sense of togetherness, proving that the spirit of Christmas extends beyond festive meals. For more information on the Santa Cruz County Veterans Memorial Building and its ongoing initiatives, visit veteranshall.org.
