by InTrieste
In a yuletide spectacle straight out of a feel-good holiday movie, the entire world converges at the table in Trieste’s Old Port auditorium. Families, solo seniors, Ukrainian refugees, and those uprooted from Afghanistan come together for a Christmas feast hosted by the Community of Sant’Egidio. “Today, it’s a global family with diverse cultures and people,” beams a volunteer, according to ANSA.
The festive menu caters to every taste: classic lasagna, veggie couscous for Muslims, succulent veal rack, panettone, and effervescent sparkling wines. Providing the soundtrack to this international celebration is Tamara, a street artist, setting the stage for an unforgettable holiday. Over 80 volunteers, some making the trek from other regions, tirelessly wrap presents in a testament to a year marked by volunteer triumphs.
Yet, amid the joyous revelry, a stark reality check surfaces. The community issues a desperate plea as a food emergency looms large. The growing number of individuals seeking food packages unveils an urgent need, casting a shadow over what would otherwise be a year highlighted by volunteer accomplishments.
