ROC receives grant to enhance ‘Especially for Kids’ program

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is pleased to announced that it has been awarded a $3,500 grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of WNY, Inc. to enhance the organization’s “Especially for Kids” program. The grant will be used to purchase therapy supplies, backpacks, school supplies and winter coat gift certificates.

Located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, the mission of the Rural Outreach Center is to assist, empower and elevate the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas. In January, the ROC will launch its ROC Resolutions campaign to shine a spotlight on rural poverty in Western New York. Several well-known members of the local business and sports communities — including co-chairs Steve and Sarah Tasker — will assist in promoting areas of concern for those living in poverty, such as nutrition, utilities, transportation and clothing.

The grant monies used to support this award were raised through the efforts of the local McDonald’s restaurants in the Western New York community, and in part by national McDonald’s promotional programs. Ronald McDonald House Charities provides lodging, comfort and emotional support for families of children receiving medical treatment at area hospitals, and reaches out to families in the community by supporting programs that benefit children.

For more information on the ROC, please call 240-2220 or follow the Rural Outreach Center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Rural-Outreach-Center-497751720285555 for frequent updates.