What do you do before the first big blizzard of the 2025 winter season roars into the Interlake? You head over to Gimli Robin’s Donuts, grab a steaming cup of coffee, join in whatever conversation is underway, enjoy some snacks and share the love.
Gimli resident Karen Bittner has been organizing a “coffee group Christmas party” each year but cancelled it after considering hazardous road conditions and the approaching blizzard.
The blizzard — which started late in the day on Dec. 17 and grew in ferocity overnight — brought a mix of freezing rain, snow, blowing snow and high winds. A number of Interlake highways including 7, 8, 9, 17 and 68 were either party covered with snow, completely covered or closed before dawn the following morning.
Undeterred, members of the coffee group “braved the storm” and came out on Dec. 17 to celebrate. They greatly appreciated the coffee shop’s owner, Lakshay Gulati, accommodating their party.
“A number of our Robin’s Donuts coffee group members still attended our Christmas party which highlighted our appreciation for the business and the local community that supports us,” said Bittner in a text message. “Lakshay Gulati, the new owner of Gimli Robins, has demonstrated exceptional kindness and flexibility towards his customers. He graciously allowed us to proceed with our coffee group Christmas party — an annual tradition spanning four years — which serves as a gathering for individuals who may be alone or unable to afford holiday meals.”
The coffee group stemmed from a “shared realization” about spending holidays without local family ties, she said. Given their connection at Robin’s, the idea to hold a Christmas party was fitting. People from all walks of life drop in. Attendance varies depending on how busy people are — but the “camaraderie remains strong.”
“Our holiday gatherings are built on the principles of togetherness and support, welcoming anyone no matter what [their] views, concerns or life experiences. We’ve made it a point to invite the solitary and emphasize that everyone comes as they are,” said Bittner. “For four years, Robin’s Donuts in Gimli has supported our gatherings, and we’re thankful for their provision of coffee and other necessities.”
