CLARION, Pa. (EYT) – “Friends of Christian,” a local non-profit organization, is currently seeking a recipient for proceeds raised at their Third Annual Poker Run and Pig Roast set for July 25.
For the past two years, the organization has raised money through a Poker Run and Pig Roast for a local family who has a chronically or terminally ill child that needs financial assistance.
Michele Wright, President of Friends for Christian, said the organization formed and began raising money for local families two years ago when a life-long friend was struggling to make ends meet and pay expenses associated with her child’s chronic illness.
Wright initially planned a chili cook-off and Chinese Auction to raise money to help her friend, but after hearing a story on the radio she became inspired to plan an even bigger event.
“I heard this story on the radio about a Poker Run that raised thousands of dollars for a family. So, I asked my close friend if he thought we could pull it off in our area. He said, ‘yes,’ and we ended up raising $3,000.00 for my friend’s family,” said Wright.
Friends of Christian decided to make the Poker Run and Pig Roast an annual event where the group raises money for a new family in need each year.
The money raised each year is given to the family to help bridge the gaps between what health insurance will pay and care for the child.
“Parents typically have to spent a lot of money on travel, hotels, and co-pays,” said Wright. “We believe no family should have to stress or choose between paying bills and taking their child to the hospital.”
According to Wright, the organization is still looking for a recipient for this year’s event.
“We look for a family with a chronically or terminally ill child under 18-years-old that hasn’t received any help, yet,” she said.
Friends of Christian hopes to have identified a recipient by May 1.
To nominate a family, send a private Facebook message to Friends of Christian and include the name of the child, age, condition, and the family situation.
Nominations may also be made by calling Michele at 814-221-0845.
The recipient is chosen based on need, and all information about the family is kept confidential.
“The process is really heart-wrenching each year because we wish we could help everyone,” said Wright.
Registration for this year’s Poker Run will begin at 9:00 a.m. on July 25 at Vinny’s on Main Street in Clarion.
The cost to register is $25.00 per bike which includes one poker hand and meals for both the driver and the passenger.
The final stop in the Poker Run will be at the Wolf’s Den Banquet Center where there will be a pig roast and raffle.
Dinner will include roast pork, two sides, a roll, and a drink.
The pig roast is open to the public and doors will open at 5:00 p.m.
For additional information, visit Friends of Christian on Facebook.
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