WROY/WRUL Radio, based out of Carmi is welcoming the region to once again join in an effort to help stock local food pantry shelves this holiday season. According to research, almost 16% of the population in the immediate listening area is at or below the poverty line. By partnering with the business community, several “Elf a Shelf” donation points have been set up with barrels to accept non-perishable food items and household goods to help our neighbors in need now through the end of January 2016.
“The event started with us wanting to help out. What we found out was that there were a lot of other folks that wanted to help make a difference as well,” said stations manager Jc Tinsley. “All the food pantries that we’ve been working in conjunction with over the last 5 years have been overwhelmingly appreciative and welcoming of the idea. Our business partners have been anxious to jump on board and make a difference also.”
In addition to the good feeling those who donate are sure to enjoy, the radio stations are providing additional incentive by making someone who donates the winner of a $1,000 shopping spree at Rush Appliance and Furniture in Carmi. New this year, WROY/WRUL are encouraging young people to get involved as well by helping color the “Elf a Shelf” elf. “We’re hoping it provides a fun outlet for children and maybe sparks a conversation at home with regards to why it’s important to help out folks in need throughout our community…especially when stats show so many young people suffer from hunger.” says Tinsley. The winner of the coloring contest will get tickets to an Evansville IceMen game along with other prize pack gifts. Copies of the entry form/coloring sheet have been sent to schools. They can also be obtained by calling the radio station at 618.382.4161.
Elf a Shelf donation partners include Little Giant Grocery Outlet in Carmi, First Mid Illinois Bank on Main Street in Carmi, State Farm Agent James Cook in the Carmi Crossings Plaza, Hillyard Farm Services just west of Carmi, H.D. Bean Jewelers downtown Carmi, Citizens National Bank in Crossville, Wabash Christian Therapy on Oak Street, Brown’s Fertilizer & Chemical on the corner of Fifth and Stewart Street, Gillard’s True Value on Falcon Avenue in Carmi, First Bank downtown Carmi, Chappy’s Steakhouse in Grayville, Bunge in Shawneetown, Crossville Communications, and Hamilton Memorial Hospitals Carmi Family Clinic on Oak Street. More details are available at https://www.wrul.com or by calling WROY/WRUL at 618.382.4161.
