Raymond James Optimist Club Helps Deliver Smiles at Sallie House

Sallie House, a program of the Salvation Army under the St. Petersburg Area Command., was designed to be a safe haven for children ages birth to 11 years who have been removed from their home because of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or any unsafe home situation for a child.  But, in 2009, shortly after a move into a new St. Petersburg facility built and furnished for this age group, the age range for the home changed to 5 – 16 years.  Suddenly, there was a shortage of age appropriate beds, bedding, and activities for teenagers. 

Don Rua, president of the Raymond James Optimist Club, named the Sallie House as the club charity for the 2008 - 2009 year.  Two fund raisers netted $1,082.40.  Initially, the club planned to purchase kiddie playground equipment, but after speaking with Sallie House Director Roger Windell, switched gears to suit the new age group.  The club presented the Sallie House with: 

• 3 Play Station2 consoles
• 6 remote controllers
• 3 memory cards
• 6 games

 

• 1 WII console
• 4 remote controllers
• 1 wireless sensor bar
• 1 charging station
• 3 games

 

 

The total costs for the gifts exceeded the funds raised; however, a 10% discount on all accessories and $25 off a WII Console from Best Buy and an extra contribution from a club member made it possible to deliver a game unit for each of the four wings of the house.  Children in residence opened the individually wrapped packages.  Even though the children knew the gifts were for the Sallie House and not for them personally, the joy and excitement ran high. Since the club’s mission is to focus on youth projects, it was a win all around. 

Children may stay at Sallie House from one night to one year, depending on whether they can be reunited with their parents, placed with relatives, placed in a foster home, or adopted by a loving family. The dedicated staff at Sallie House is ready 24 hours a day – 7 days a week – with the comfort and care these children so desperately need and deserve. Their goal is to offer an atmosphere that is as normal as possible until arrangements for each child's long-term care can be made.  Quality game time helps make it so. 

Don Rua

President, Raymond James Optimist Club (associated with Optimist International)

info@rjoc.com

www.rjoc.com

www.optimist.org

http://pjtampabay.com

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