BENTON, Pa. — Who knew that one of the biggest social events of the season for senior citizens in Columbia County would take place at school.
"They love it. They always wanna make sure we have it every year. They're calling early. Happy, happy to be here, happy to hang out with their friends and spend Christmas together," said Missy Muldowney, administrative assistant.
"That's the reason my wife said we're going. Yeah, she she enjoys this more than I do, you know, she's more of the social type. Yeah. But it's, it's always great to come out," said Howard Leh, Sugarloaf Township.
To the Benton Area Middle and High School for its 20th Annual Senior Citizen Holiday Dinner.
"It's become part of our holiday tradition. Something that you know, I joked earlier that, you know, the school isn't just about the kids just 98.2% or something like that. And this is that other 1.8% I better get it. Right, because my old math teachers back here," said James Geffken, superintendent.
Spending the afternoon sharing memories and telling stories with many who either attended or worked at this school.
That's why organizers say it's important to continue to make it happen during the holidays year after year.
"There's a lot of work to put into this. We start about in October getting ready for this we reach out to the community and ask for donations. They are wonderful, everyone always donates for us. They're always willing to help," said Muldowney.
"It's really great. You know. It shows your concern not only about the kids but also the parents. grandparents. You know, unfortunately, we don't have any children going here. But yet, it's good to see that. They are concerned about the whole family," said Leh.
As a parting gift for the 20th anniversary, each attendee got to take home an ornament for their Christmas tree.