Although it may seem a little cliché to give thanks at Thanksgiving, it must be done as there is so much to be thankful for here at Outreach. We had 350 individual donors, 45 local businesses, eight charitable organizations, and 170 volunteers who all gave their time and/or treasure in 2016 to help us carry out our mission. We have collected and distributed $570,000 worth of “gift-in-kind” food, non-durable goods, and services from more than 600 separate donations. The collective contribution from Polk County is truly inspiring.

As we approach Christmas, a special shout out goes to Barry Gee and the Polk County Toy Run.  Last weekend, more than 400 bikers rode from Saluda, through Tryon and Landrum, and into Columbus. There, they donated 50 big bags of toys for Outreach, DSS, Steps to Hope, and the Sheriff’s Office. Each of these organizations also received a financial gift thanks to the generosity of 121 local businesses and the diligent fundraising prowess of Kim Pack! We are also grateful for each community along the way, who provided some cheers, and public safety personnel for traffic safety.

We are also especially thankful for our clients this year. We have rolled out several surveys and installed a new database that has required us to collect broader and deeper information on all family members. Our clients have been understanding, patient, and willing to help if it means that we can better serve all those in need. It can be humbling to ask for help and we at Outreach have great respect for our clients and the challenges they face every day.

So what’s next? Client Services Manager Michelle Reedy is hard at work distributing and collecting gifts for the Holiday Tree program, where angels from area churches and businesses purchase gifts for local children and seniors. As always, please visit www.tboutreach.org to learn more about our programs and services.

~ George Alley