Nassau, Bahamas, Jan 1st, 2018 – A festive occasion with hearty food, good friends and warm, welcoming smiles from Salvation Army staff and volunteers greeted 600-plus elderly and physically challenged at this year’s Salvation Army Annual Christmas Luncheon.

As the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band entertained with familiar pop and seasonal tunes, everyone tucked in to Christmas fare served by Salvation Army staff and volunteers and much-needed extra hands from CIBC FirstCaribbean team members. Food parcels were also prepared and distributed.

The lunch was part of the Salvation Army’s ‘Christmas Cheer Programme’ – an extension of the organisation’s year-round ‘Feeding Programme.’ “We try to go the extra mile during the Christmas season because we understand people are in need,” said Melanese Coakley, Salvation Army Public Relations Manager.

During the event CIBC FirstCaribbean Managing Director Marie Rodland-Allen presented a cheque. “The reward of serving a community hands-on, strikes a chord in all our hearts, and I’m so thankful that our employees share in the spirit of giving of their time and goodwill, particularly at this time of year. To fulfil our role as an ongoing responsible corporate citizen we try to be fully committed to giving back in every way possible. Not just monetarily, but also with our feet on the ground like we are today,” said the managing director.

The Salvation Army’s Christmas Luncheon brought young and old(er) alike together in the spirit of volunteerism. Even little helping hands got involved in meal preparation.

A special holiday cheer radiates from this party-goer’s face as she awaits her lunch at the Salvation Army Christmas Headquarters.

The comfort of a warm bountiful meal brought joy to hundreds of community members as they gathered at the Salvation Army Christmas Luncheon.

“The reward of serving a community hands-on strikes a chord in all our hearts, and I’m so thankful that our employees share in the spirit of giving of their time and goodwill,” CIBC FirstCaribbean Managing Director Marie Rodland-Allen said.

Christmas food parcels lined up and ready to be distributed at the Salvation Army Annual Christmas Luncheon.

Up on their feet and ready to groove, these attendees showed the crowd they’re still young at heart with their dance moves at the Salvation Army Christmas Luncheon.

CIBC FirstCaribbean team members were proud to present a cheque to Major Clarence Ingram in support of the Salvation Army and their ongoing humanitarian efforts.