A Penticton family paid it forward this Christmas in a big way, opening their home to dozens of strangers for a holiday meal.
Ashley Fagan put out an open invitation in a local community Facebook group in early December.
"Our family is opening up our home Christmas Day for a hot meal and a warm place to eat it, our treat," she wrote.
"We might not have much but we will welcome you with open arms."
It was part of many charitable acts she, her husband and her two children had been undertaking throughout the holiday season, including handing out cards and baked goods to all their neighbours. But Christmas dinner was the finale.
On the big day, Fagan prepared a menu of all the classics. Mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, turkey, sweet carrots and more were readied, and the family waited to see who would show up.
The result was heartwarming. Fourteen people were seated restaurant-style, while dozens more came for takeout, for a total of 53 served.
"It was incredible," Fagan told Castanet, adding she reposted her invitation online throughout the night to remind everyone it was happening. "People kept messaging to pick up take-outs. It was incredible."
She said all the guests, strangers and friends alike were very well-behaved and there were no incidents.
Fagan was aiming the dinner at people from all walks of life.
"Are you lonely away from your family or have no family down here? Are you not quite able to afford Christmas this year?" Fagan said. "No one deserves to be alone on Christmas."
The evening was such a success, Fagan feels sure it will be back.
"We absolutely want to do it again," Fagan said. "Make it a tradition."
— Chelsea Powrie, Castanet
