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It will look a little different this year, but the meal will go on.

The 31st Annual Community Christmas Dinner will be a drive-through event from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (or until food runs out) Christmas Day at First Baptist Church of Albemarle. Only 500 plates will be available.

In past years, downtown churches have assembled volunteers who have helped prepare meals and assist dine-in individuals – 144 volunteers last year. Some years have brought between 1,000 and 1,500 people to dine-in or take-out from the dinner.

Bob Sweet, one of the organizers from First Baptist, said when it became apparent that the dine-in option was not an option due to COVID-19, they looked at other ideas.

The meal will be catered by Golden Corral, with desserts provided by Albemarle Sweet Shop.

“We’re very grateful to have them on board with us and look forward to feeding some people in the community,” Sweet said.

First Baptist Church is at 202 N. Second St.