Wolfsburg: New Year's Reception Canceled Due to Blizzard—Food Donated to Those in Need
Blizzard Elli forces last-minute cancellation of Wolfsburg's New Year's event
The meal had already been prepared, but the guests couldn't make it. The Wolfsburg Business Association was forced to cancel its New Year's reception at the Phaeno science center on Friday due to Blizzard Elli—but found a meaningful way to put the food to good use.
Around 200 members and guests had been looking forward to the event, but the safety of attendees took precedence. "We made the difficult decision to cancel the reception Friday afternoon as the weather conditions continued to deteriorate," explained Claudia Kayser, chairwoman of the Wolfsburg Business Association.
Business Association Quickly Reaches Out to Charities
That afternoon, treasurer Ingo Krüger and Kayser contacted nonprofit organizations, including a women's shelter and homeless aid services, to donate the prepared food.
They also received support from Mayor Dennis Weilmann, who helped coordinate with the city's winter relief services and the fire department.
By Saturday afternoon, the organizations were able to pick up the meals from Hall 8 at Graubner & Gädke (GG Event Catering) in Weyhausen. Over 20 portions went to the women's shelter, more than 100 hot meals were distributed to the fire department and winter road crews, and over 60 warm meals were delivered to the homeless shelter on Borsigstraße.
"While we're disappointed that the New Year's reception had to be canceled because of the weather, we're glad we could make a difference and bring some joy by donating the food," added treasurer Ingo Krüger.
