Cooking up community spirit for the holidays

Imlay resident extends Thanksgiving
dinner invitation to those who’d like some fellowship and good food

 

IMLAY CITY — Carla Schueler knows how it feels to be alone for the holidays.

The 62-year-old has grieved the loss of two husbands, and felt the echo of heartbreak while everyone else seems filled with cheer.

This year, though, she’s turning the tables—or perhaps better said, setting the table for a gratitude-filled Thanksgiving dinner. She’s hosting the occasion at no charge to anyone who would prefer not to be alone, those who may not be able to afford a holiday meal and anyone else who may enjoy a little fellowship that day.

Carla says the idea was born simply out of need.

“Honestly, I was tired of spending Thanksgiving alone,” she says. “I was used to being married, having the kids and family and friends around. I was just sitting here one day and thought there’s got to be somebody else out there feeling like I do. Someone who could use a little company and a good home-cooked meal.”

She was right. After posting an open invitation on the Imlay City Social Club Facebook page, Carla was surprised—and uplifted—by the feedback.

“I wasn’t sure what was going to happen after the post, but the response I’ve gotten from the community has been enormous. Friends, and people I don’t know, have said ‘let me know what you need and I’ll help.’ It’s really, truly nice.”

Carla has also received RSVPs for the Thanksgiving feast. Both men and women have signed up, she says, and the offer has been extended to local police officers and/or firefighters who may be on duty that day.

“I just want to keep getting the word out,” Carla says. “I want everyone who doesn’t want to be alone to be able to come.”

This is the first time Carla has made such an offer—noting that the inspiration came from both of her late husbands.

“It was their favorite holiday, so I’m doing it in honor of them,” she says.

She’s also discovering the unexpected side-effect that helping others helps herself as well.

“I don’t live high in the hills or have an elaborate lifestyle, but I believe that you have to do what’s right,” Carla says. “It never hurts to be kind, and it doesn’t cost a dime to be kind. I love to cook, too, so why not spread the love?”

Of course Carla’s Thanksgiving feast will include turkey, ham with pineapple and cherries, green beans, carrots, and stuffing. Friends and community members have stepped up to offer mashed potatoes and a sweet potato casserole, dinner rolls and dessert.

“My best friend Diane Gilbert is bringing her fabulous pumpkin roll,” Carla grins. “It’s unbelievable how great she makes it.”

Along with helping out for the dinner, Carla’s friends have also cautioned her about opening her home to strangers.

“I am a little nervous. People have said be careful of who you let into your house, but I believe in the goodness of people,” Carla says. “I just want everybody to be kind during the holidays. For many people, it’s a hard time.

“Sometimes life sends you a curveball and there’s nothing you can do about it,” she continues. “So please just be kind to your fellow man. It doesn’t hurt and it doesn’t cost a thing.”

Anyone who could use some fellowship and a homemade Thanksgiving meal is invited to attend. Please call 586-318-1561 to reserve a spot, and to help Carla calculate how much to cook.