It has been so heartening to see the different ways our community has taken care of each other during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Boys and Girls Club of Rush County has certainly done their part. Now, thanks to you, their impact will grow.

Even while their building and programs have been closed, the Boys and Girls Club have been caring for Rush County youth. In April, they distributed 4,735 snacks and 4,735 suppers to 875 kids (450 different individuals) ages 18 and younger.

But it wasn’t enough. The large number of children seeking help wasn’t what challenged them. It was the space for perishable food items.

Quinn Leisure, Unit Director, told us, “We are not limited on the AMOUNT of children we can serve. We were just limited on storage.” Your gifts made possible a Rush to Help: COVID-19 Rapid Relief Fund grant of $4,798 to purchase an industrial-size refrigerator and freezer.

These units will allow staff to provide more nutritious food to more children. They anticipate being able to serve 450 youth each week, up from the current 300.

The gift of this equipment will outlive the crisis. The Boys and Girls Club will be able to adhere to new guidelines of food preparation for their upcoming summer camp and beyond.

“When we are able to re-open we will continue providing breakfast, lunch and snacks for our members that attend each day, that is a potential of 1,350 meals just inside the club per week. We will also provide lunch to anyone under the age of 19 each day that would like to come pick one up. They do not have to be a member. Thank you so much for your support and assistance during these difficult times,” continued Quinn.

If you’re looking for fun hands-on activities to do with the kids in your life, be sure to check out Virtual Camp on their Facebook or Instagram pages. The staff has done a great job!

The Boys and Girls Club of Rush County becomes the fourth local organization to receive funding. Other Rush to Help grantees include: Rush County Community Assistance Food Pantry, Milroy Community Food Pantry and City of Rushville Intern Program for work with the Rush County Economic Recovery Taskforce.

These grants are made possible by the generosity of donors like you. Your support is lifting up our community during a time of great need. Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted below, or by mail: RCCF, 117 N. Main Street, Rushville, IN 46173.