Probably the last thing on the minds of the March 1 tornado victims was partying. But several groups have organized a community-wide street party to raise funds that will help those still suffering from the affects of the storm.
AMERIGROUP Community Care and First Baptist Church of Thomson are organizing the Tornado Relief Drive called "We're On a Mission, McDuffie!" The March 24 street-party fundraiser - hosted by the First Baptist youth group - will include food, clowns, games and prizes.
The event grew out of AMERIGROUP Community Relations Manager Jeri-Michel Davis' desire to drum up some positivity after the recent tragedies.
"We decided to put the power of the AMERIGROUP corporation behind it and called First Baptist Church, tapped into their 30 Hour Famine (fundraiser)," said Ms. Davis, a Thomson resident. "They were looking for a community service project, and one and one came together to make this wonderful event."
Storm victims can pick up health and wellness information as well as personal items from AMERIGROUP during the party. The proceeds from the event will go toward the First Baptist Church's care package and medical assistance programs for the tornado victims.
Also at the event, the Thomson Family Y will have fitness oriented games, and the Thomson Police and Fire Departments will give safety demonstrations. "The Preacher's Kid" will give a performance, as well.
The "We're On a Mission, McDuffie!" street party will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. on March 24 at the McDuffie County Board of Education central office, located at 716 North Lee Street.
According to a press release, AMERIGROUP Corporation currently provides health coverage to more than one million Medicaid recipients in nine states and Washington, D.C.
The company contracts with state governments to build successful preventative-medicine programs that target and help pregnant women, children and people with chronic diseases, such as asthma and diabetes.
