Christmas in June? Winnipeg's Rossbrook House Makes Holiday Magic Happen

Imagine for a moment, the delicious aroma of roasted turkey and all the trimmings, the excited chatter of children, and the unmistakable buzz of a big family gathering. Now, imagine all of that happening... in the middle of June. Sounds a bit unusual, right? Well, in Winnipeg, for the incredible folks at Rossbrook House, it's become a heartwarming new tradition.

This past Friday, June 21st, Rossbrook House, a true cornerstone of the city for over five decades, once again pulled off its annual 'Christmas Feast,' albeit several months ahead of the usual holiday rush. This isn't just any meal; it's a massive undertaking, a genuine labour of love designed to bring warmth, sustenance, and a whole lot of joy to children, youth, and their families in the community.

So, why the mid-summer celebration? It's actually a pretty clever solution to a very real problem. As much as we all love December, it's just, well, crazy busy for everyone. Trying to secure enough volunteers, coordinate food donations, and find available space during the frantic holiday season became a monumental challenge for the Rossbrook team. Moving the feast to June, they've found, makes everything so much smoother. Volunteers are more readily available, resources are easier to come by, and everyone can simply relax and enjoy the spirit of giving without the usual end-of-year stress.

And what an event it was! This year alone, over 700 smiling faces – children, parents, and community members – gathered to share in the festivities. Imagine serving up plate after plate of succulent turkey, generous slices of ham, fluffy mashed potatoes, savoury stuffing, fresh vegetables, and, of course, a delightful dessert to hundreds upon hundreds of guests. It's no small feat, requiring the dedication of more than 100 passionate volunteers who lend their time and energy to make it all possible.

For many of the kids who frequent Rossbrook House, this feast is a highlight, something they genuinely look forward to all year. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of connection, a feeling of belonging, and a powerful reminder that their community cares deeply for them. It embodies the very essence of what Sister MacNamara envisioned when she founded Rossbrook House over 50 years ago: a safe, welcoming space where kids can simply be kids, learn, grow, and feel supported.

So, while the rest of us might be dreaming of beach days and summer BBQs, the folks at Rossbrook House are proving that the Christmas spirit isn't confined to a calendar month. It's a feeling, a commitment to community, and a willingness to adapt traditions for the greater good. And honestly, isn't that just a wonderful lesson for us all? Hats off to Rossbrook House for making Christmas magic happen, even when the sun is shining bright in June.