Volunteers in Action will have a big night Dec. 4 as it hosts its 22nd annual holiday dinner for the homeless.

VIA’s goal is to help those who are in need, senior Sarah Muwonge said. The secondary goal of VIA is to have the St. Thomas community lend a helping hand to those in need.

“It’s a great way to  help out the community,” Muwonge said. She started volunteering for VIA during her freshman year, and became a leader as a sophomore.

Senior Adam Baker, another volunteer for the event, said fliers are posted at the Dorothy Day Center and the Listening House for those who wish to attend the event. He said VIA is in contact with the directors of both areas and added that even if people are not part of the shelters, they can still attend.

“All are welcome,” he said.

Guests will arrive by bus, courtesy of VIA, at about 6 p.m. and will stay for a two-hour dinner, Muwonge said.

Fifty St. Thomas volunteers will help with the event, ranging from cooks to decorators to hosts for the guests.  Muwonge said students, acting as St. Thomas representatives, will also sit down with the guests and share the dinner with them. Baker said last year’s guests appreciated the students’ company as much as the meal.

The turnout is usually about 200 people, and Muwonge said she is glad to help people within the St. Paul community and she added VIA is a great opportunity for students to get in touch with that community.

VIA is planning a fundraiser Nov. 29 at Davanni’s to raise money for the event.

Nathan Spencer can be reached at spen9079@stthomas.edu.