Frequently asked Questions for the ordering and distribution of guest meals and provisions bags on Christmas Day

Introduction

From our logistics base at the RDS, and with the assistance of many organisations working with those in need throughout the year, we will be providing up to 4,500 free dinners / provisions bags to partner organisations on Christmas Day  and we also welcome new meal requests / partners for distribution to those in need in at their homes and accommodation around the greater Dublin area.

The high-quality traditional Christmas dinners are pre-packaged and stored in refrigerated units at the RDS until Christmas Day. Heating instructions and ingredients / nutrition / allergens are printed on the packaging for each meal. One provisions bag is provided with each pair of meals ordered.

Q. When will I be able to begin ordering meals?
A. The meal ordering process opens on 1st December.

Q. How can I place an order with the Knights of St. Columbanus for Christmas Day Dinner meals?
A. Please use the online Order Meals application form at http://ChristmasDayDinner.com

Q. I am not a formal Partner of the Christmas Day Dinner – may I still order meals?
A. Yes. You can order meals by using the Order Meals application form. If you are not an established organisation – we may need a little more information from you (not a lot!) before your meal order is confirmed for collection on Christmas day.

Q. What time on Christmas Day can I collect my meals / provisions bags?
A. Collections begin at 08:00 and are normally completed by 11:00. If you are working with one of the larger partner organisations, e.g. Alone, you may be assigned a specific time to make your collections.

Q. Where do I collect my meals / provisions bags?
A. Please enter the RDS through the Anglesea Road entrance and follow the instructions of the Marshalls. Please ensure you have sufficient space in your car / van to store the meals & provisions bags, to enable the volunteers to load them efficiently for you.

Q. Do you provide pre-prepared meals for Vegetarians / Vegans / Coeliacs?
A. Unfortunately, we can only accommodate for the traditional Christmas Day dinner. Ingredients / allergens are clearly indicated on the meal packaging.

Q. Can I collect the pre-prepared meals before Christmas Day?
A. Unfortunately not; the RDS is only resourced with volunteers on Christmas Day to provide these for distribution