Concert to benefit Washington Christian Outreach
On Saturday, Washington County residents will have a chance to feed their musical vibes while feeding local families in need.
Bruce and Povich, along with special guest “Elvis Presley,” will take the stage on July 19 at Elks Ballroom, 138 E. Maiden St., for a benefit concert for Washington Christian Outreach, with proceeds bing donated toward an upgrade of the outreach’s kitchen.
It is the first year for the “Rock Out for the Kitchen” event; the WCO also hosts an annual 5K race that draws hundreds.
The event coordinators, Gary Beam and Debbie Boardley of the WCO, tapped Pete “I’ve Got The Beat” Povich of WJPA and former Skyliners band member Eric Bruce, along with Elvis Presley impersonator Ken Wescott to perform at the show.
“Hopefully we will raise a lot of money,” said Povich, noting that with federal funding cuts and a challenging economic landscape, helping organizations that address food insecurity is more important than ever. “They’ve been working out of that kitchen since the ’70s and there are a lot of upgrades that need done to meet the needs of the community.”
The non-denominational Christian organization’s 100 volunteers provide nutritious hot meals during the week from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and access to a free community store where Washington County residents can obtain clothing, kids’ toys, personal items, household items and other necessities.
“Right now our numbers are up,” said the outreach’s Beam, noting WCO feeds between 100 and 150 people in Washington County and provides Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas food boxes, Easter baskets, back-to-school backpacks, and more.
WCO was started 48 years ago by Virginia “Jeanne” F. Allender, after she was given a bag of used clothing and was asked to distribute it to someone in need. Donations of clothes and household goods quickly poured in, filling her home and a church basement, and her ministry grew into the WCO.
Cost of the kitchen renovation and other improvements are estimated at $325,000, and WCO has received a Local Share Account grant of $100,000.
“It’s desperately needed so they can continue to do the important work that they do,” said Povich.”The number of people who are counting on them has grown. We’re hoping everyone turns out to support a good cause and have a good time.”
The cost for a ticket is $20, and food and refreshment will be available. Several baskets will be raffled off, with proceeds donated to WCO. For tickets and additional information, contact WCO at 724-222-0750.