‘Plate of Plenty’
Grace Frisch, daughter of Rice Energy employee Eric Frisch, serves pie to some of the local residents who attended Rice Energy’s “Plate of Plenty” Saturday at the City Mission in Washington.
Rice Energy employee Emily Knorr greets a local resident Saturday at Rice Energy’s “Plate of Plenty” coat distribution in City Hall.
Rice Energy Inc. hosted a traditional Thanksgiving meal and winter coat distribution in Washington Saturday, serving 421 adults and children.
The activities represent the company’s second annual “Plate of Plenty,” which aims to support those who are challenged by poverty, job loss, illness and homelessness.
Between Friday and Saturday, nearly 70 Rice Energy employees and their relatives volunteered to prepare and serve the meal at the City Mission’s recently completed kitchen and dining facility.
Another 25 volunteers reported to City Hall to organize and distribute winter coats that were collected through the company’s two community coat drives hosted earlier this fall.
On Saturday, volunteers opened the doors ahead of schedule and served more than 100 meals in the first 30 minutes. The meal consisted of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, corn and gravy. Pie and ice cream were served for dessert, and diners had a choice of beverage.
“On the surface, one might think this is simply about serving a meal, but Plate of Plenty represents much more than that,” said Kimberly Price, manager of external communication and community relations for Rice Energy.
“We are here to fill the void that exists for many around the holidays,” she said. “Whether that is a family setting to enjoy a traditional meal or to combat the loneliness that many feel this time of year, we are letting our neighbors know that they are not alone and providing them with a warm coat to prepare them for the season ahead.”
After dinner, those who attended were able to choose from a selection of new and gently used winter coats. Of the nearly 400 coats distributed, about 150 were for children.
“I want to thank Rice Energy for meeting the needs of so many low-income and hurting people in our community,” City Mission CEO Dean Gartland said. “The home-like atmosphere they created is testament to Rice Energy’s commitment to our hurting neighbors.
“Seeing the smiles on the faces of our residents and guests as they anticipated a wonderful meal and free coats was remarkable. It truly lifted their spirits and gave them a sense of hope that others really do care about them.”
A second event will be held for Greene County residents from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Waynesburg Readiness Center. Registration is open to all members of the community. RSVP can be completed online at www.plateofplentygreene.eventbrite.com or by calling 855-258-8326.
Free transportation for those who register will be provided throughout Greene County.