Boys & Girls Club hosts heartwarming community dinner for all of Carter County
Published 1:27 pm Friday, October 25, 2024
Photo Contributed/Rik Anderson, Nicole Hensley
Photo Contributed/Lacey Turbyfill, Brittney Shell, and Kiva Fuller
Photo Contributed/Elizabethton Electric linemen
Photo Contributed/Carter County EMS
Photo Contributed/Club kids make signs to thank first responders.
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In a touching display of collective spirit, the Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County hosted a free dinner on Tuesday evening for residents affected by Hurricane Helene and the entire community. The event, held at the Boys & Girls, brought together families, friends, and first responders for a heartwarming evening of gratitude and solidarity.
“Offering a meal in the aftermath of a disaster can bring the community together, providing a sense of normalcy and solidarity. Sharing a meal offers emotional comfort and a break from the stress of recovery efforts,” said Charlene Ray, Director of Resource and Development.
The dinner was particularly special as it was organized and executed by club staff, who also delivered food to first responders after the dinner. Club and community members, many of whom experienced the hurricane’s devastation firsthand or through their loved ones, attended the event with their families, finding comfort and support in the shared experience.
A father whose child attends the club mentioned that he had been working nonstop as a tow truck operator since Hurricane Helene. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to spend this precious time with his family.
The event was a resounding success, with attendees enjoying a delicious meal and the opportunity to connect with their neighbors and local heroes. It served as a reminder of the strength and unity that can emerge from even the most challenging circumstances.
Club members created vibrant banners as gifts to linemen and first responders, expressing their gratitude. The club provides many resources for families, such as free Wi-Fi for anyone to use, and it is an open food site where families can come and pick up a meal for each household member. Most importantly, the Club has acted as a remote learning site to help prevent learning loss during this out-of-school time. The Club plans to do Whatever It Takes to help as the community continues to reassess, rebuild, and heal.
Note: A special thank you to all the volunteers, to Black Olive, Chick-fil-A and to the community members who generously provided a meal.
