The months are dwindling to mere weeks. Yes, Christmas is just around the corner, and in the lead-up to the holidays, Good News! is featuring suggestions and practices Salvation Army centers have found helpful in their Yuletide programs. This month’s material comes from New York City and the Greater New York Division (GNY).

It’s not really Christmas in New York until the Salvation Army’s annual luncheon, sponsored by the Greater New York Division.

GNY’s annual Christmas luncheon has been a season–starter since 1948 and is considered one of the highlights of the season in the Big Apple.

The event typically draws 1,300 to 1,500 people from corporations and Salvation Army circles, including boards, donors, corps, and volunteers. It’s also not uncommon to see a celebrity or two in the audience. Ivanka Trump, the daughter of Donald Trump, and actors Edward Herrmann and Sam Waterston, a star from TV’s “Law and Order,” have been among the guests in recent years.

GNY also presents “Pinnacle of Achievement” and “Community Service” awards to deserving individuals, corporations, and foundations that have been advocates for The Salvation Army and the community.

The New York Staff Band provides musical entertainment and a Salvation Army official presents a Christmas message.

The luncheon gives The Salvation Army high visibility at the most important time of the year for fund–raising.