In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Opening Minds of the Communities Club (OMCC) at Snake River Correctional Institution’s Minimum (SRCM) facility recently channeled their fundraising efforts to benefit the Four Rivers Community School Food Pantry. The adults in custody (AICs), organized a successful doughnut fundraiser and utilized remaining funds from a coffee fundraiser, resulting in a generous donation of $1,073.23 to the pantry.
The OMCC didn’t stop there, they also donated 36 bottles of coffee creamer and 30 bags of cappuccino coffee left over from a previous event. The support extended beyond the club, with SRCM staff and their families joining forces to collect non-perishable food items, ensuring the pantry shelves were stocked with extra treats for the holiday season.
Randal Henderson, President of OMCC, expressed gratitude, stating, “The Opening Minds of the Communities Club is fortunate to have been given the opportunity to give to a recipient as amazing and deserving as the Four Rivers Community School food pantry. Our Club is newly formed in September of 2023. Our Mission is to make a positive impact on both the incarcerated community and the outside community equally by bridging the gaps of communication through outreach. We know the void that we have left in the community, and we are grateful for this chance to help fill that void.”
Choosing to support the Four Rivers Community School Food Pantry was a deliberate decision by the Opening Minds Club. Recognizing a local need and striving to make their donation impactful because of the crucial role the food pantry plays in the community. Despite receiving enough food from the Oregon Food Bank to serve 20 families, the pantry routinely serves 47 families every other week.
The SRCM community expresses gratitude for the opportunity to support a community partner dedicated to creating opportunities for learning and giving back. The Opening Minds Club’s thoughtful donation reflects their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those they touch.
In response to the generous donation, the Four Rivers Community School Food Pantry extended a profoundly heartfelt expression of gratitude to the club.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the adults in custody at Snake River Correctional Minimum Facility for their generous donation to our school’s food pantry. The ‘Opening Minds of the Communities Club’ has showcased exceptional dedication in addressing local needs, particularly in supporting children.
Their fundraising efforts, including the impactful donut fundraiser and canned food drive, will significantly contribute to helping the 47 families we currently serve. This collaborative initiative exemplifies the transformative power of community engagement, transcending boundaries to make a positive impact.
We appreciate the compassion and commitment demonstrated by the adults in custody and the entire facility. This donation not only addresses a crucial need but also fosters a sense of connection between the correctional facility and our school community. Thank you for choosing to support Four Rivers Community School and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”
