The Rhonda Walker Foundation transformed the Boys and Girls Club on Tireman Avenue in Detroit into a vibrant holiday celebration on December 16, 2023. This year’s annual RWF Cares Christmas party brought joy to families living in shelters, featuring food, gifts, face painting, and a surprise visit from Santa Claus.
Dr. Chad Audi, CEO of the Detroit Rescue Mission, expressed 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 marked the 23rd annual celebration and was designed to uplift families currently residing at the Genesis House II shelter.
Creating Joy and Community
For many families, this event is a rare opportunity to experience joy during difficult times. Dr. Stacie Hunter, a member of the foundation’s board, emphasized the importance of dignity and respect for all individuals, saying, “Everybody should be entitled to the same love and respect across the board, regardless of status and poverty.” The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement, as children received gifts they would not typically have access to.
LaTonia Plair, a first-time attendee, shared her appreciation for the initiative. Her son, Darrius, received new shoes, and she noted, “It’s really a blessing and really a pleasure to be here. This is a wonderful thing that Rhonda Walker does every year for these children and their families.” The smiles on the faces of both children and parents illustrated the event’s impact.
Community Support and Generosity
More than 100 secret Santas contributed to the success of the party by providing gifts that included clothes, toys, bicycles, and essential items like shoes and socks. In addition to the secret Santas, local businesses and entrepreneurs also played a significant role in the event. Jacqueline Searcy, founder of Vote Bendiga, was among those who contributed. She began making socks as a hobby, motivated by her grandmother’s spirit.
Searcy noted the importance of donating often overlooked necessities, 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.” Her commitment to helping those in need highlights the community’s collective effort to support families experiencing homelessness.
The Rhonda Walker Foundation’s holiday party serves as a reminder of the power of community and compassion, bringing hope and happiness to families facing challenging circumstances. As the event concluded, the spirit of giving resonated throughout the club, leaving lasting memories for all who attended.
