Bandera Family Christmas Tradition Continues

Hundreds of families and individuals attended the 27th Annual Bandera Family Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day.  The event was again held at Post 80 American Legion on Main Street in Bingamton and at the Boys and Girls Club of Western Broome in Endicott.

In addition to those two main locations meals were also served in Binghamton at Woodburn Court, Lincoln and 110 Chenango Place.  Organizer Bill Bandera told WNBF News that meals were also delivered to five counties including Broome.  He has continued the dinner tradition that was started by his parents.  He took over the dinner organizing and preparation in 2010.

Bandera believes that after the totals are figured out over 3200 meals will have been served.  There is no charge for the dinner.  Food and supplies are either donated by area businesses or monetary contributions are used to purchase what is needed.

The meals were complete dinners with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables and dessert.  The meals are served no matter what financial situation the participants are in currently.

Some are very much in need of a hot meal while others want companionship and to be with other people on the Christmas Holiday.