On December 16, 2023, the Rhonda Walker Foundation transformed the Boys and Girls Club on Tireman Avenue in Detroit into a festive holiday celebration, providing support to families currently residing in shelters. The event featured food, gifts, face painting, and a special appearance by Santa Claus, creating a joyful atmosphere for children and their parents.
Dr. Chad Audi, CEO of the Detroit Rescue Mission, highlighted the significance of the event by stating, “We see the kids and the families at their lowest, and today we see them happy. You can see it in their eyes.” This marked the 23rd annual RWF Cares Christmas party, and the smiles on the faces of the attendees underscored the event’s purpose: to bring joy to those experiencing homelessness.
Creating Special Memories for Families
All attendees were families living in shelters, making the event particularly meaningful. Dr. Stacie Hunter, a board member of the foundation, emphasized the importance of love and respect for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. “The parents get to relax a little bit, and the kids get gifts that they normally wouldn’t have gotten. So, they have their same Christmas, right?” she remarked.
LaTonia Plair, a mother whose son Darrius received a new pair of shoes, expressed her gratitude for the event. “It’s my first year coming, and I’m really excited about this. This is really a wonderful thing that Rhonda Walker does every year for these children and their families, and I really appreciate it,” she stated.
The families participating in this event were primarily residents of the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries’ Genesis House II shelter. To ensure that every child felt special, a group of 100 “secret Santas” provided gifts that included clothes, toys, and even bicycles, along with shoes and socks.
Community Support and Generosity
The generosity extended beyond individual donors; local businesses and entrepreneurs also contributed significantly. Among them was Jacqueline Searcy, who founded her own business, Vote Bendiga, which translates to “God Bless You” in Dominican Spanish. Initially starting as a hobby, Searcy began making socks and felt compelled to donate as many as possible.
“I once heard that toiletries, such as panties, underwear, and socks, are mostly under-received by homeless shelters and people in need,” Searcy, 26, explained. “I wanted to make sure that I was a part of that impact.” Her contributions, alongside those from the community, helped create a memorable holiday experience for families facing challenging circumstances.
The Rhonda Walker Foundation’s annual holiday party not only brought joy to those in need but also served as a reminder of the importance of community support during the festive season. With its long-standing commitment to aiding families in shelters, the foundation continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves.
