by Lee Pierre
The T.G. Howard Community Center Inc. (TGHCC) would like to take a moment to highlight an exciting new initiative. Rika Charity has the pleasure of announcing the first new program being offered by TGHCC during its 60th year anniversary celebration. The Pulaski based center established by Rev. Thomas G. Howard has a long history of helping people as it has collaborated with various nutritional programs such as Head Start and elderly programs to provide meals during the summer. Rika has been part of TGHCC for several years and remembers it being her “go to” when she was younger and attended the “Summer Day Camp.”
“I truly enjoyed being part of the camp. Campers were provided meals as well as taken on various outings,” Rika remembered how much the Center meant to her and as an adult decided to give back to the community. She and her husband, Stephen, as well as her son are active volunteers at the Center.
Two years ago the T.G. Howard Community Center Inc. Outreach Committee highlighted Rika when she completed the culinary program offered by Virginia Western Community College in Roanoke.
“It has always been placed on both my heart and my husband’s to serve others through food service. The opportunity has now presented itself through the T.G. Howard Community Center Board of Directors,” Rika said. “Starting this month, I will be heading a feeding program for senior citizens in the New River Valley. The first phase of this program will consist of providing a lunch once a month for the next three months.”
May’s lunch will consist of Ham or Turkey Sandwich with a slice of cheese, condiments, a bag of chips, pickle, cookies, and a drink. Several civic organizations and churches will be contacted in an effort to identify individuals sixty-five and older who are in need. There will be a limited number of lunches available for the May 24th delivery.
The lunches will be distributed by volunteers/ family/church members who may deliver to those unable to pick up the lunches for themselves.
Please let us know if you are aware of a senior citizen who may live by themselves and in need by sending the information by May 21, 2025 to: [email protected]
*Supplies are limited*
