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The Elrod Center continues to make an impact in the lives of families throughout the Arkadelphia community. For the past seven years, the Elrod Center has provided Thanksgiving baskets to many families in need.
During the Thanksgiving holiday season, the Elrod Center recruits participants to assemble 50 baskets filled with one meal per family.
“Participants can buy food, assemble the baskets, bake bread or dessert items for them, or deliver them on the Monday before Thanksgiving,” said Judy Duvall, assistant director of the center.
The baskets are then distributed to families in the community who need assistance. Lighthouse Ministries provides a majority of the names, while others come from the Big Brother/Big Sister program, Backyard Bible Club ministry and local schools.
Not only are the baskets providing food for families, but also memorable experiences and a lasting impression. The volunteers call the families right before delivering the baskets, making them a surprise gift and often provoking tears.
“I try to encourage the recipients by telling them that this is a gift to help them through a hard time and project hope by encouraging them to one day, when they are back on their feet, pay it forward and help another family in need,” Duvall said.
The Thanksgiving basket project is one way students can get involved in serving the community through the Elrod Center.
“All of us have been given so much,” Duvall said. “One of the ways we can live as grateful, redeemed people is to share out of our abundance. These Thanksgiving baskets give us the opportunity to do that.”
For more information, email Duvall at duvallj@obu.edu.
Photos by Kristen Barnard.
