Alzheimer’s Lunch marks 20 years of community support
By: Pamela Clayfield
For two decades, Emma Franken’s Beef on a Bun Luncheon has been a September tradition in Huron and Perth Counties — a grassroots fundraiser that brings together volunteers, local businesses, and community members in support of the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth during World Alzheimer’s Month.
This year, 420 meals were prepared and delivered across Goderich, Clinton, Seaforth, and Wingham. Because the luncheon has a limited number of meals available, orders are placed ahead of time by businesses and individuals eager to support the cause — and to enjoy Emma’s muchloved cooking.
On the day of the luncheon, Emma and her dedicated team gather at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Goderich, where they prepare every meal by hand. Volunteers assemble the takeout boxes, organize delivery routes, and then fan out across the region to ensure each order arrives fresh and on time.
The event is powered by generosity. The Goderich Knights of Columbus are longtime supporters, donating toward the costs so that every dollar from each $12 meal can go directly to local Alzheimer’s programs and services. HearingLife also plays a key role each year, donating all the bananas included in the meals.
Funds raised through the luncheon support a wide range of services offered by the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth, including:
Support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
Education and community awareness
Social and inhome recreation programs
Advocacy and navigation services
These programs help ensure that people across Huron and Perth Counties have access to compassionate, local support when they need it most.
This year’s event also included Emma’s daughters MaryAnne Millian and Marg Miller along with Tim Martin and John Glazier from the Goderich Knights of Columbus and Erin Dale from the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth.
Their presence reflects the spirit of the luncheon — a blend of family, community service, and unwavering commitment to supporting those living with dementia.
For more information about local programs and services, visit www.alzheimer.ca/huronperth.
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