Friday, November 11th, 2005

ROCKWOOD 2000 APPLAUDS EFFORTS OF ROCKWOOD MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION

    ROCKWOOD – Civic group Rockwood 2000 President Judy Wassom recently announced a special recognition totalling $500 has been awarded to the Rockwood Ministerial Association for their efforts in improving Rockwood's appearance by remodeling the facade of one of their buildings.

    The Rockwood Ministerial Association exists to help disadvantaged people in Rockwood by providing food, assistance with utility bills and funds for rent. They maintain two buildings in support of these endeavors, and recently remodeled the exterior of the storage building. The storage building houses donated furniture which is provided to families at no charge.

    "This group provides a vital service to Rockwood," according to Wassom. "Their efforts should be acknowledged particularly since the renovation of the building significantly contributes to the beautification of Rockwood, one of Rockwood 2000's primary goals."

    "It was in pretty rough shape," acknowledged Director Bob Hembree. "We were able to upgrade the exterior with the help of extra donations."

    Donations to the Ministerial Association regularly come from individuals who provide 100% of the labor and many cash contributions. Food gifts come from local supermarkets, local churches, individuals and the Second Harvest Program in Knoxville, TN. A total of seventeen local churches participate in the support of the Ministerial Association with money, food and volunteers.

    Ministerial Associations exist in Harriman, Kingston and Rockwood. The Rockwood Ministerial Association provides food assistance to approximately 200 families each month. In the 2004 holiday season, 220 Christmas baskets were delivered to residents, which were assembled by volunteers from local churches.

    "Our 2005 goal is to provide 240 Christmas baskets," said Hembree. The president of the Rockwood Ministerial Association is Reverend Paul Johnston, minister of Asbury United Methodist Church, and the vice president is Reverend Charles Mattson of the Rockwood United Methodist Church. Secretary for the group is Reverend Mark McCoig of Caney Ford Baptist Church. There are no paid employees.

    "Both of our organizations are non-profit groups which means we are always fund raising. I am delighted to announce we are able to contribute $500 towards their continuing efforts," said Wassom. "On behalf of Rockwood 2000, congratulations on the improvement of the Rockwood Ministerial Association building, and thank you for your continuing efforts in making Rockwood a better place to live."

    The food pantry is open from 10:00 am to 12:00 am and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. It is located on Strang Street in Rockwood, in the Fowler Building.

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prepared by Beverly Stroh