The Christian Resource Center, local volunteers and partnering organizations came together to share some holiday cheer at the Rockport High Rise on the eve of Thanksgiving. Volunteers handed out more than 40 hams, along with tangerines, cookies and other fare to help everyone kick start the holiday season in style.
Dee Denu and John Rudisill of the CRC credited Molly Schulte and the rest of the Lady Rebels Basketball Team as critical to the day’s success. The team managed to raise more than $1,000 for the CRC’s ham funds, and Schulte herself was present to help hand them out.
“She worked so hard to raise that money for us,” said Rudisill. “God is definitely providing for us.”
Bethany Valentine, director of housing at the Rockport High Rise, expressed great gratitude for the CRC and those that support it. She noted that while most residents are quite independent, it can be difficult for them to access certain resources due to age or other issues. The CRC not only provides meals for the holidays, but support with navigating government programs and other challenges as well.
“The Christian Resource Center has been amazing with helping,” said Valentine. “Not just with the High Rise, but to all of our tenants.”
Denu said the Rockport High Rise was a natural choice as a recipient for this festive bit of holiday giving. She pointed out that in her position as CRC director, she has come to know a great many of them as customers, volunteers, friends and neighbors.
“It is in my heart,” said Denu. “I see a lot of people in our store.”
While Thanksgiving is now behind us, the season is only beginning. Denu said southern Spencer County can expect a lot of volunteer efforts in the coming month. In addition to a planned return to the Rockport High Rise with carolers and festive meals, the CRC is gearing up for its annual Toys for Tots distribution. Bags of toys will be handed out from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rockport City Park December 17. The CRC is also teaming up with Cornerstone United Methodist Church to help make the holidays a little brighter for adults as well, providing various household items to High Rise tenants and others in need across the community.
For more information about services, volunteer options or needs for donations, call 812-649-4946 or visit the center at 499 Jefferson Street in Rockport between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
“The Christian Resource Center has been blessed with an abundance of riches this holiday season and we would like to share with you,” said Denu.
Story and Photos by Don Steen
