KINGMAN – Luigi Garibaldi has been at it for years.
Head chef and owner of Garibaldi’s restaurant on Andy Devine Avenue was joined by his small staff to cook and serve Christmas Eve meals to the homeless and needy Thursday. The crew set a goal to give out 200 meals from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. About 120 meals were handed out and the mission to help was accomplished.
“We wanted to make sure families and children didn’t miss out on anything,” Garibaldi said. “I’m a Christian and always wanted to give back for what I’ve gotten. I’ve got my restaurant and now I’m giving back to the community.”
He’s been in the restaurant industry for 26 years (since he was 16 years old). He’s owned his downtown restaurant for five years and has always been working to help the communities he’s lived in.
Funds and logistics were coordinated courtesy of Robert Munsil, founder of Divine Interventions, a local ministry that uses monetary, clothes and toy donations to help the needy of Kingman.
“Every donation helps,” Munsil said. “The more we get, the more we can help.”
The event is all donation driven with the idea to provide, not profit.
Several businesses including The Gold Doctor, Martin Swanty and the Peterson family (coach and family members who are involved with Lee Williams High School sports programs) have also contributed.
Garibaldi’s friend, Michael Van Vliet Jr., dressed as Santa, stood in the bed of a truck attracting the attention of passersby on Route 66. It definitely raised some eyebrows.
Garibaldi and staff were happy to help.
“I want to let know we’re here to make a difference,” he said. “We have love for this community, and everyone is accepted. Taking care of people is what we do.”
To donate for further events, contact Munsil on the Divine Interventions Facebook page or by phone at 928-897-1682.
Aaron Ricca
