Rotary Club Hosts Successful 35th Annual Winter Community Breakfast Fundraiser

Members of the Rotary Club of Bedford worked hard to make sure people had enough food to eat. Courtesy photo

By Rotary Club of Bedford

The Bedford High School cafeteria buzzed with activity early on Sunday morning, Dec. 10, as the Rotary Club of Bedford hosted its 35^th annual holiday breakfast fundraiser – The Winter Community Breakfast. Formerly known as Breakfast with Santa, the event expanded last year to offer more than just cherished photos with Santa, a hot pancake breakfast, crafts, and the annual custom coloring book.

Stepping into the high school cafeteria, families experienced a winter wonderland on an otherwise warm December day. Volunteers, including students from Bedford High School (BHS) and the John Glenn Middle School (JGMS), and community members, transformed the cafeteria on Saturday afternoon.

Then on Sunday Rotarians, Interactors (Rotary International’s service club for young people), BHS and JGMS students, representatives from Bedford Family Connection, BEST/PTO, the Parents Diversity Council, and Bedford business supporters joined forces to host the families.

The Winter Community Breakfast lived up to its name, bringing back a cherished tradition to Bedford while fostering an inclusive environment for all members of the growing and diverse community.

Along with winter fun, traditions from Christmas, Hanukkah, and Lunar New Year were all featured at various activity tables. The Bedford Family Connection provided sensory bins and a calm quieter space in the back cafeteria with help from the Rotary Club of Concord.

Local businesses played a crucial role in the event’s success.

The Debbie Spencer Group sponsored a winter-themed photo booth. Courtesy photo

The Debbie Spencer Group sponsored a winter-themed photo booth, while Middlesex Savings Bank sponsored the ever-adorable photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Craft tables were staffed and sponsored by Bedford Family Lawyer, The Residence at Bedford, Mimi Henning and Diane Hughes of Barrett/Sotheby Realty, and Chestnut Dental.

Volunteers from all over town had a great time hosting the festivities. Courtesy photo

Generous breakfast contributions came from Ken’s NY Deli, US Foods, and the Minuteman Diner.

A Social Story for the Winter Community Breakfast was created by Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Alex Plodzik at the Bedford Recreation Dept.

In alignment with Rotary International’s commitment to environmental responsibility, two large bins were designated for plant-based trays, bowls, cutlery, straws, placemats, and food scraps. These materials were sent to Black Earth for composting. Additionally, leftover food items were donated to the Lowell Transitional Living Center.

The Bedford Family Connection provided sensory bins and a calm quieter space in the back cafeteria with help from the Rotary Club of Concord. Courtesy photo

Crafts were among the activities kids enjoyed at the Rotary Club of Bedford’s 35^th Annual Winter Community Breakfast. Courtesy photo

The Rotary Club of Bedford welcomes those interested in learning more to reach out via email at [email protected] or visit their website at https://www.bedfordmarotary.org.