Salesianum Christmas Lunch

What started as a heartfelt idea from Salesianum alumnus John Casale '23, a current freshman at Penn State, has quickly blossomed into a beloved tradition. In 2023, John launched a new tradition at Salesianum: the Christmas Lunch. Driven by the belief that no one should be alone on Christmas Day, students, families, and faculty gathered at school on December 25th to host neighbors from Wilmington Housing Authority residences. The celebration, held in Salesianum’s gym, featured a delicious meal, thoughtful gifts, and a visit from Santa himself. The day became a joyous and meaningful occasion to foster community and build friendships with local residents on one of the most sacred and magical days of the year.

This year, Salesianum proudly hosted its Second Annual Christmas Lunch, and it was an incredible success. The event grew in scale and impact thanks to the dedication and hard work of student volunteers, led by senior Ian Fahnoe and a committed team of classmates. These students went above and beyond, pouring their energy into planning and executing this large-scale event as the semester came to a close.

The turnout was inspiring, with students, alumni, parents, and families coming together to share the day. Faculty and staff provided crucial support, assisting with organizational details and event setup. Support from the Wilmington Housing Authority ensured that neighbors from across the city could join in the celebration. It was a memorable day bringing joy and countless smiles. 

This year’s attendance surpassed last year’s, but the mission remained unchanged, ensuring that no one would spend Christmas alone.  The food, the gifts, and most importantly, the sense of community and goodwill made this year’s Christmas Lunch another unforgettable celebration of hope, joy, and togetherness.