ABOVE PHOTO: Council President Darrell Clarke and Founder of Ridge on The Rise Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, David Simms of Eatible Delights Catering. (Photo: Abdul R. Sulayman)
By Kiarra Solomon
@By_Kiarra
On Thursday, Chef David Simms, owner of Eatible Delights Catering, hosted the 4th Annual Ridge Avenue Holiday Lighting Ceremony in North Philadelphia. During this event, the community was treated to live musical performances, free food, holiday festivities and more. The climax of the evening was a special appearance by dear old Santa Claus, who lit the community Christmas tree.
Since 2011, Eatible Delights Catering has been spreading holiday cheer in North Philadelphia with the Ridge Avenue Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Not only has Simms been able to provide a sense of community along Ridge Avenue, but he’s been able to distribute over 200 brand new winter coats, and serve more than 500 hot meals. Through this initiative, Eatible Delights also provided members of the Ridge Avenue community with essentials for the coming winter months. A collection of seasonal winter items were distributed to community members in need.
PHOTO: Ridge Avenue. (Photo: Abdul R. Sulayman)
It’s bigger than just giving back to the community where he does business. For Simms, it’s about bringing hope to a community whose residents really need it during the holiday season, he said.
“These people in this community deserve to have what every other community has”, said Simms.
The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony brings joy and love and peace to Ridge Avenue, if only for a few hours. According to a recent Pew Foundation study, the poverty rate in North Philly is about 42 percent. But in this neighborhood, Simms and the other businesses along Ridge Avenue are trying to make an impact.
In addition to a musical performance by TV personality and reporter Kharisma McIllwane, guests were treated to the performances by youth from the community. The event was hosted by Patty Jackson of WDAS FM, and appearances were made by several City Council Members, including Council President, Darrell Clarke.
This annual community celebration is a demonstration of how small businesses can benefit Philadelphia and take pride in giving back to those in need. “It is a tremendous privilege to extend a small bit of gratitude to the community,” David comments on his excitement for the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
For over 15 years, Eatible Delights has operated in Philadelphia and the surrounding region. The full service on and off premise catering company has a strong passion for community service and social impact. To find out more about Eatible Delights visit www.eatibledelights.com.
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