An Armagh takeaway who have for four consecutive years provided free hot dinners on Christmas Day say they have seen an uptake year-on-year.
Ali, owner of Gringo’s on the Killylea Road, called into the Armagh I office to give us an insight into his fourth year of providing free Christmas dinners to those less able in the community.
He explained that it all started on the tail-end of the Covid Pandemic when an elderly couple called at the shop – which specialises in Italian and Mexican-style cuisine – looking for something a little more festively traditional.
That’s when Ali thought, “I have to start doing this!” He said the moment “stayed with me” and made him realise “no-one should be without a hot meal at Christmas”.
He started his Christmas Dinner Drive to ensure those who were alone, elderly, or with young families, who are struggling financially, would be able to enjoy a hot, traditional Christmas dinner replete with all the trimmings on the big day.
Since starting in 2021, Ali said he would typically serve around 60 to 70 dinners in total. However, this year he already has 68 on his list and it continues to climb!
Much like Santa’s elves, all the work goes on behind the scenes on Christmas Eve and Ali will have a team of local volunteers who come in to assist with the very important preparations.
On Christmas Day, he opens his doors from 1.30pm to 3pm, allocating the meals on a collection slot basis.
The day means so much to Ali and the team at Gringo’s. For them, it’s all about offering a little kindness and Christmas cheer!
Said Ali: “It truly feeds my soul and heart, and I’m proud to give something back to our community.”
