School district dinner planners expect big turnout

Holiday event will also include a coat drive for the needy

Deptford Township School District. The school district’s annual holiday dinner is staffed mostly by volunteer students and teachers from the township high school. About 150 residents attended last year’s drive-thru version of the event, necessitated by COVID.

In order to bring some seasonal cheer to residents, the township school district will host a free holiday dinner in the high-school cafeteria on Sunday, Dec. 18.

“It’s a holiday party for Deptford residents that anyone can attend,” said school district Food Service Director Carla DiPippo. “It’s a nice event with a nice turnout. Santa will be there and there will also be a DJ there to provide music and entertainment. 

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“Last year we had around 150 people and possibly more, so that’s what I’m expecting this year – a big turnout overall.”

High-school teachers and students volunteer for the event, which is also supported by cafeteria staffers in the district’s eight schools. Food for the dinner is donated. 

“They volunteer their time to come and help out,” said Dipippo. 

Some board of education members are also expected to volunteer for the dinner since it’s   advertised as a district event rather than one limited to the high school. The meal will be hosted by Carletta Sherry, a paraprofessional at the high school and advisor for the Class of 2022. Now in her fourth year of involvement, she will also help volunteers.

The dinner will include a coat drive for the needy; accepted items must be in good condition and not show much wear. 

Registration is required to attend; send an RSVP for an entire group to DiPippo by Monday Dec. 12 at (856) 232-2700, ext. 2540, or email dipippo.c@deptfordschools.org

This year’s dinner is the first in person since the pandemic; the 2020 and 2021 events were drive-thru. Hours for this year are noon to 3 p.m. More information can be found on the school district website.

“It’s a fun time for all,” said Dipippo.

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