The annual Pine Bluff Community Christmas Potluck, founded by Ryan Watley, his organizing team and the citizens of Pine Bluff, once again came together and made a difference in the lives of many people on Christmas Day, according to spokesman Mary Liddell, event coordinator.
While this mission started as an outreach for those less fortunate, it evolved into an opportunity for fellowship as a community on Christmas Day at the Opportunity House, 1305 E. Sixth Ave., the local community shelter. The director of the Opportunity House is Cynthia Ramey and the shelter program manager is Michae L’Rae, according to a news release.
“We were blessed to deliver 151 dinners and to serve over 200 on Christmas Day at the Opportunity House. There were over 50 volunteers and every child that was present received at least two gifts. We had enough toys this year to give toys to some of the grandparents to take with them to give to their grandchildren. Donations were also given to bless some of the workers at the Opportunity House,” according to the release.
Several sponsors gave their support to the effort.
“We received donations of over 10 hams from (Wood Shed — Kassie Atwood, owner) and 16 hams from (Hall Construction — Michael Hallman, owner). We also received over 20 turkeys from Suzano Packaging paper mill. In addition we received monetary donations to help with purchasing some of the food and its preparation,” according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Tomekia Moore, executive director of Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association, provided more than 200 bags of produce that consisted of sweet and white potatoes, onions, apples, oranges and dried peas.
Sixth Division Judge Earnest Brown’s staffers, United Way of Southeast Arkansas, Boys and Girls Club of Jefferson County and other citizens provided the toys. Local musician Nelson Kimble provided Christmas songs and music to make it a festive and joyous occasion.
Pam Puri, manager of the Pinecrest Flea Market, donated more than 20 pairs of gloves for children and adults.
The effort was also supported by community pastors and churches, along with the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Alumni Chapter, Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the Pine Bluff Fire and Emergency Services Department, the Optimist Club of Pine Bluff, RSVP, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and Pine Bluff School District students.
“This is my ninth year serving as the event coordinator to make sure that the food, volunteers, and décor are in place to move the event forward,” Liddell said. “God has us here on this earth for a purpose, and my purpose is to be a servant and give service to the citizens of Pine Bluff.”
