Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School (PSO) had line-ups two or three deep through an already packed cafeteria and all the way up the adjacent stairwell to the next level when hot turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and more were on the menu on Dec. 11.
Youth care worker Melody McIntosh says the Junior Alternate Program students and teacher-councillor Andy McIntosh put on another stellar turkey lunch for the whole school this season.
"The nice thing that happened this year is the Royal Canadian Legion [Branch 260-100 Mile] offered to sponsor our dinner.
"So it's a really nice collaboration of the Legion and our veterans, and the kids who were prepping and cooking the dinner. It's all just very wonderful."
The Second Annual Turkey Lunch was offered to students and staff by donation of cash, food or toys for 100 Mile House Food Bank, but with an exception, Melody says.
"We also have a program in our school that kids who can't afford that get a free lunch.
"It's a gift for the kids, and it makes sure that all of them have a nice warm turkey dinner for Christmas."
She adds some students bring along parents or other guests.
"[The food bank] gives us a nice thank-you card and it's really wonderful when they come and collect, and the kids are all there ... it's really good for them – good feelings all around.”
PSO principal Geoff Butcher was a guest server this year, working along with the McIntoshes and student volunteers.
With the advent of the secondary school merger in 2013, the Junior Alternate Program became responsible for running the school cafeteria, which Melody notes gives the students a chance to get out of the classroom and gain work experience.