BRISTOL, Va. (WCYB) — As the Hard Rock Casino prepares to open its doors, its impact on local charities in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia is already being felt. The casino has been actively involved in community outreach, providing monetary donations and volunteer support to various organizations.
“Our team members are really invested in giving back to our community. It’s part of the culture we build here in Hard Rock Bristol,” said Michelle Fick, the community outreach manager.
One way patrons can contribute is by donating in the casino ticket boxes on the gambling floor. The casino also supports local organizations through direct monetary donations and volunteer efforts.
Feeding Southwest Virginia is one organization that has benefited from this partnership. “We’ve been blessed from the beginning to have a partnership with the casino,” said Lisa Claytor, chief development officer of Feeding Southwest Virginia. The organization feeds 114,000 people per month, with one in five children and one in seven adults experiencing food insecurity.
“Three years ago, the United Way of Southwest Virginia gave us the children’s backpack program. Whenever there’s a transition like that, there’s a worry that it will be less than it was. After we began taking it over, the casino stepped up and said that’s something we’d like to support,” Claytor said.
Through their partnership with the casino, Feeding Southwest Virginia has been able to distribute 7,500 backpacks filled with food to children in need. “It’s made a big difference. Plus, they’re very generous with in-kind donations. This week, they are donating almost 200 turkeys for us to give out to families so they can have a turkey for the holiday,” Claytor added.
Hard Rock team members have been actively volunteering, which Claytor said has encouraged others to get involved. “I think once people saw they were involved, they also became involved. So we’re very thankful for their strong stewardship,” she said.
0
20
20
