The Walnut Room at Holy Angels School in West Bend was bursting with holiday spirit Thursday evening as teachers hosted children and their parents from Family Promise from a Christmas dinner.
“Texas Roadhouse donated the meal, Starbucks and McDonald’s donated the drinks and Pick n’ Save donated the cookie decorating material,” Renee Altendorf, teacher and event organizer, said.
The evening started around 5:30 p.m. with a sit down supper followed by cookie decorating, arts and crafts and a rather heated game of ping pong.
“They loved the food, running around in the open space and the kids really love the ping pong,” said Altendorf.
About 45 people were treated to dinner including Family Promise board member Mike Bloedorn. “This program shows the families the community cares about them,” he said. “It’s a great evening of camaraderie.”
To cap off the evening Santa and Mrs. Claus made a surprise appearance. The couple came armed with baskets of candy canes and a few early Christmas gifts.
Family Promise is a nonprofit organization, located in the former Restat building on Elm Street, that provides food and shelter for homeless families.