Dr. J.E. Davey School hosts 18th holiday breakfast for over 500 students

VIDEO: A school in downtown Hamilton saw an annual holiday tradition return following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. J.E. Davey Elementary School held it’s 18th annual holiday breakfast for its more than 500 students.

Members of the Hamilton Police Service and Hamilton Fire Department served at the event, as well as event sponsors from the Rotary Club of Ancaster and Rotary Club of Lincoln.

Local chef Brad Rempel helped deliver a nutritional breakfast to one of the most diverse schools in Hamilton, home of 32 different languages.

Joanne Serkeyn founded the event 20 years ago and says it’s a tradition they look forward to every year.

“Because of the different cultures, not everybody celebrates Christmas. This is why we take it as a holiday breakfast, its a way to be festive and bring goodwill and peace. And some kids may not have presents, its a way for them to have that experience,” Serkeyn said.

Every child also walked away with a gift after Santa Claus made an appearance.

“Everybody gets involved no matter what they celebrate,” said Paula Thomas, a teacher at the elementary school.

“They enjoy the presents and are very thankful for the rotary club and the donations, not just the food but the gifts every child walks away with.”