The Southwest Voice

By: Traci Creel

For the 15th year in a row neighbors and friends of the Haggin Oaks community are coming together to raise money for the Bakersfield Homeless Center. The tradition began in 1993 when Dustin Kilpatrick, then 9 years old, and his brother started selling cookies and hot chocolate to Bakersfield residents cruising through Haggin Oaks to enjoy the beautiful Christmas light displays. His goal was to raise money for charity and that year he was able to donate $200.

Fifteen years later Dustin is attending USC but the tradition has been carried on by a dedicated group of neighbors and friends. To date Dustin’s Diner has raised over $120,000 by collecting donations for homemade cookies, hot chocolate and hot cider. Many of those handing out cookies and accepting donations are neighborhood children who are encouraged by the generosity of the Bakersfield residents. Last year 16-year-old Michael was amazed to receive a $50 donation for a single cup of hot chocolate.

All donations collected at Dustin’s Diner go directly to the Bakersfield Homeless Center.

Starting on Dec. 15, Dustin’s Diner will be located in the Haggin Oaks neighborhood at the corner of Haggin Oaks Boulevard and Saint Cloud Lane through Dec. 23. The diner will be open Sunday through Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m.