Frontline Mission preparing for first in-person Easter dinner event since the onset of the pandemic

WASILLA — Easter is less than weeks away, and Frontline Mission staff and volunteers are eagerly preparing for the first in-person event for their annual Easter dinner since the pandemic started.

This free community dinner is Wednesday, April 13 at the Wasilla Lake Church gym, located at 2001 East Palmer-Wasilla Highway, near Wasilla Lake and Fred Meyer.

Frontline Mission program director Matthew Sheets said that Easter is a time to celebrate together, but unfortunately, not everyone in the Mat-Su Valley will have an Easter dinner to look forward to, or family to share it with, not even a warm safe dwelling. He said the annual Easter dinner is a free and welcoming place for corners of the community to connect with plenty of warm meals and social opportunities to go around.

“Frontline Mission is a connecting place between the less fortunate and the compassionate people of the community,” Sheets said.

The event will also feature a dessert bake-off and door prizes to be auctioned off with provided monopoly money to those who attend.

“It’s a really fun time,” Sheets said.

Frontline Mission is anticipating serving about 800 meals during the week of Easter, according to Sheets. He said the community came together and sponsored meals for the event.

Sheets said that Frontline Mission has hosted a community dinner centered around Easter for many years. He said they’re thrilled to have the opportunity to reunite with the public once again.

“This is an event for everyone,” Sheets said.

Sheets said there will be over 100 volunteers helping out with the Easter Dinner, and they’re still seeking applications from anyone who wants to participate.

Frontline Mission continues its general operations such as providing hot meals every Wednesday from 6 to 7 p.m. Grocery food boxes, clothing, shower, laundry, and job search services are available on Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, call 907-357-8600 or email helpfrontlinemission@wlflm.org.