Most community centers are closed for Christmas. But it is precisely during the holidays that these houses have an important function: to bring people together. That is precisely the reason why the Salvation Army has its doors open in Hoogeveen today; for a Christmas lunch for fifteen people.
Trijnie van Dalenhof has already had lunch at the Salvation Army at Easter. And that went well. “I don’t have many people around me anymore. I do here. I just don’t talk about it. When I think back to Christmas, I think of this. I like that.”
Ghulam Mughal has been living in Hoogeveen for 4.5 years. And that’s how long he’s been with the Salvation Army. “I’m alone. I feel lonely at home. That’s why I come to the Salvation Army. For coffee, tea and today Christmas lunch. I really enjoy that. Without the Salvation Army I would feel very lonely.”
He praises the people of the Salvation Army. “Some time ago I had surgery for a hernia. That was a very lonely time. Then the Major came to my house. And they also take my religion into account. I don’t eat pork and then I get something else. I have very good contact with the employees and management here. And a few others who also come here have become acquaintances.”
And what’s on the menu today? Coordinator Mariëlle Oost went to the kitchen herself and made a mustard soup, ragout and a salad. “It’s quiet here, so I think it tastes good,” she laughs.