Outreach 2008

All the hustle and bustle...and a very big thanks to all who participated in the various Outreach activities supported by Pohick Church during December. Eighty children and family members were entertained with a wonderful Breakfast with Santa; residents of Mondloch House and the Kennedy Shelter enjoyed a wonderful meal, holiday party, and gifts thanks to the generous members of Pohick Church; food baskets and toys were delivered to LCAC to make sure that the clients’ children had a joyous holiday. Thanks to all who participated - whether it was by providing food, toys, music, set up, or clean up!

Now, on to January and beyond...

On Sunday January 20, the Second Annual Red Beans and Rice Dinner will be held to raise funds for the Adult Mission Trip to New Orleans. A fourth trip is planned for February 10 - 16, 2008.

As the adult mission trips are non-budgeted, it is necessary to raise funds to help mitigate the expense. Each of the individuals making this journey pays for their own airfare and dinners while in New Orleans. Some funds have been raised to provide rental cars and to provide the groceries for breakfast and lunch. In addition, a donation has been made to the Church in New Orleans where the missionaries sleep to help offset expenses. Most importantly, funds have been provided to the gutting and rebuilding fund. Thus far, 883 homes have been gutted by this group and 16 houses have been rebuilt.

The rebuilding of the gutted homes is pretty amazing. Homes with good foundations are being rebuilt at a cost of $20,000 to $40,000. The cost is largely for plumbers, electricians, drywall, and appliances with the balance of the labor provided by the volunteers.

In order to continue the work in New Orleans, and to have a good time in the Pohick community, money will be raised with a red beans and rice dinner. Opening entertainment will be provided by the Pohick Pickers, and another idea will be borrowed from New Orleans: there will be an ‘open mike’ for those talented individuals who would like to share their musical stylings. To help with food preparation, or set up, please contact Susan Homar.