Goldwing Road Riders Assoc. Adds Christmas Cheer

Fifty two participants of the Goldwing Road Riders Association (GWRRA), Missouri Chapter I gathered on Saturday, December 10, 2011 to fill thirty six large boxes with hams, fresh fruits and vegetables, pantry staples, boxed and canned foods and vegetables, candy, paper goods and toiletries. Once the boxes were filled, chapter participants delivered three overflowing boxes to twelve families.

"Our GWRRA Chapter has been doing this ever since I joined the group in early 1990." said Roger Riley, the Motorist Awareness Coordinator for the chapter. "Each year, we identify twelve families who might fall through the cracks," he said. "We personally find people who might have a sudden job loss or recent high medical expenses and even unexpected tragic events in their lives who probably wouldn't ask for help under normal circumstances, but can really use the boost to their grocery shelves and budget during this time of the year."

Not only do Chapter fundraising events help with the cost of the food boxes, but Chapter participants sign up and bring a variety of food and paper products to round out the contents that get delivered to the families.

Riley says that due to the generosity of Chapter participants, the three boxes' contents are easily valued at about $200 per family when it's all said and done, if not more.

"The boxes we deliver not only provide a meal for Christmas day, but other foods and staples that allow a family to eat for about a week at least," said Riley.

The reward is always immediate when the recipient opens the door and realizes that the money earmarked for groceries this week might be used for utilities or a Christmas present or two instead.

"For those of us fortunate enough to make the deliveries, the looks of disbelief and tears of joy are what make this time of the year a very, merry Christmas," said Riley. "I can't tell you how humbling it was on Saturday for me to carry in a box and have a six year old ask me my name and then shake my hand. Those tears of joy I mentioned were mine!"