The Rhonda Walker Foundation hosted its 23rd annual RWF Cares Christmas party on December 16, 2023, at the Boys and Girls Club on Tireman Avenue in Detroit. The event brought together families currently residing in shelters for a festive day filled with food, gifts, and entertainment, including a visit from Santa Claus. This initiative aims to provide joy and support to families facing homelessness.
Dr. Chad Audi, CEO of the Detroit Rescue Mission, expressed his gratitude for the event, stating, “We see the kids and the families at their lowest, and today we see them happy. You can see it in their eyes.” The party created a vibrant atmosphere, evident in the smiles of children and parents alike, as they experienced a moment of happiness during challenging times.
The event was particularly significant as all attendees were families living in shelters, highlighting the foundation’s commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to love and respect. Dr. Stacie Hunter, a member of the foundation’s board, emphasized this sentiment, saying, “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?”
LaTonia Plair, a mother whose son Darrius received a new pair of shoes, shared her excitement about attending the event for the first time. “It’s really a blessing and really a pleasure to be here,” she said. “This is a wonderful thing that Rhonda Walker does every year for these children and their families, and I really appreciate it.”
Families attending the party were primarily from the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries’ Genesis House II shelter. A network of 100 secret Santas contributed to the gift-giving, providing not only toys and clothes but also essentials such as shoes and socks. Local businesses and entrepreneurs also participated, donating gifts to ensure that the children experienced the joy of the holiday season.
Jacqueline Searcy, who founded her sock-making business, Vote Bendiga, felt inspired to give back to the community. She explained her motivation, stating, “I once heard that toiletries, such as panties, underwear, and socks, are mostly under-received by homeless shelters and people in need. I wanted to make sure that I was a part of that impact.”
The annual holiday party serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and the positive impact that such initiatives can have on those facing difficult circumstances. The Rhonda Walker Foundation continues to play a vital role in bringing hope and joy to families in need, reinforcing the belief that every child deserves a festive and memorable holiday experience.
