St. Jerome's Fall Supper Serves Up Food, Fellowship And Community Spirit

The smell of roast beef and all the fixings filled St. Jerome's School Thursday evening as guests gathered for the school's annual fall supper, enjoying a hearty meal and an evening of visiting with friends and neighbours. With two sittings offered at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., the supper drew an impressive crowd. The first sitting was nearly sold out, while the second was completely sold out. Throughout the evening, the building was filled with chatter and laughter as guests settled in around the tables. The menu featured roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, Caesar salad, turnip, lazy cabbage rolls, corn, cheese and buns. A wide selection of desserts, including gluten free options, rounded out the meal, along with tea, coffee and juice. Behind the supper was a considerable team effort involving students, staff, parents and volunteers. According to St. Jerome's School Principal Leanne MacDonald, the food for the supper is gathered and prepared with help from throughout the school community. Students bring in food donations according to their grade level, while staff members also contribute either food or monetary donations. Carla Proch serves as the main organizer of the annual event, with plenty of assistance from Kaylee Collins and Meghan Krys. Much of the cooking is done by Charlene and her catering service at the regional hall, whose involvement has become an important part of the supper. "She has been a wonderful support of Saint Jerome's," MacDonald said. The annual supper also serves an important purpose for the school. As St. Jerome's major fundraiser, proceeds help support various school programs as well as transportation costs. While fundraising is an important part of the evening, the supper has also become a tradition that gives families and community members an opportunity to gather together each fall. The strong attendance Thursday evening showed that tradition continues to be well supported, with volunteers working throughout the event to serve a meal that has become familiar to many who return year after year. "It is our school's major fundraiser, and a wonderful tradition that has continued from year to year," MacDonald said. With a sold out second sitting, plenty of conversation around the tables and a meal featuring all the favourites of a traditional fall supper, the evening offered a simple reminder of why the event has remained a valued St. Jerome's tradition.