Downriver school district’s turkey give-away a heart-warming event
Volunteers are pictured behind a few of the turkeys that were given away at River Rouge High School Nov. 25.
The River Rouge School District, in partnership with the Heart Work Is Hard Work Foundation, gave away 4,000 free turkeys and other dinner fixings to families in need on Monday, Nov. 25.
The giveaway took place at River Rouge High School, lasting from 9 a.m. to noon, and included musical entertainment from a DJ as residents arrived by car (via a drive-through line) and on foot to pick up a full holiday meal — including a turkey, stuffing, vegetables and more.
United States Gypsum Corporation, known as USG, was among the corporate donors — alongside DQS, Forgotten Harvest, Wayne Mobile Health and others. USG, which operates a facility in River Rouge and has been in the community for over a century, made a $1,500 donation in support of the turkey giveaway.
This community tradition is in its 10th year, and has provided more than 20,000 dinners to families in need over the years.
Collaborative effort
USG River Rouge Plant Manager Sarah Messa and several of her team members were on site on Nov. 25 to help distribute turkeys and fixings.
Other USG team members participating included Bernard Roberson, Durock General Foreman; Evan Kitchell, Engineering Manager; and Pam Caldwell, Service Supervisor.
“As a longtime member of the River Rouge community, USG recognizes the importance of giving back and supporting residents who truly need support this holiday season and beyond,” Messa said. “It was great to participate in this wonderful event and to come together as a community during the Thanksgiving week to serve others.”
Students pitch in
Breakfast and hot beverages were provided onsite for volunteers, which included many River Rouge High School students in addition to the corporate and nonprofit sponsors.
River Rouge school board members and administrators were on hand at the event. And many local, statewide and community leaders were invited to attend.
Among those in attendance at the turkey giveaway were River Rouge Mayor William Campbell and River Rouge School District Supt. Dr. Derrick Coleman.
The River Rouge School District has more than 3,000 students.
Messa said USG is looking to do more in the community and will continue to support events such as this one: “Giving back to our communities is a core part of USG’s culture, and we look forward to doing more in the River Rouge community and continuing to make a difference.”
