EDITORIAL
You might call them “Good Summer-aritans.” That’s a (terrible) pun on the well-known “Good Samaritan” story but it’s pretty accurate in describing some programs going on this summer in Rockdale. They are beating heat and hunger. The Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is giving away fans to help needy persons stay as cool as possible through the teeth of the summer temperatures. “Feed Rockdale,” a new summer lunch program, is providing meals for children on the east side of town. For several years now the Chamber has given away fans to those who need them. As of last week about 10 fans had been distributed. Fans are donated by organizations and individuals. As we all are aware, July and August are our towns hottest months and we’ve already had several triple-digit readings. Last week’s rain, and lower temperatures, were nice, but you can be sure more 100s, and 100s-plus-are on the way. The Chamber still has some fans left but they will go quickly. You can go by the Chamber’s Rock House office at 1203 West Cameron (US
79) or call 512-446-2030 for more information. “Feed Rockdale,” which is being organized through First Baptist Church has as its goal to fill in the hot meals gap between the end of summer school and the start of classes in August. It is providing lunches for children up to age 18 on the east side of Rockdale. Monday through Thursday meals are delivered. On Fridays, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at First Baptist, there’s children’s activities and lunch outside at First Baptist, corner of Bell and Green. Why only the east side? The new program’s resources are limited in its first year and the goal is to make Feed Rockdale a citywide offering in 2019. A dedicated volunteer group serves the needy in our town, and elsewhere, year round. The Emmaus Project provides meals, wheelchair ramps and basic home and yard work throughout our city. It has served over 30,000 meals since its inception in 2009. Emmaus has been involved in many community activities including every Earth Day. It has also sent mission groups to Haiti and the Dominican Republic and assisted with Hurricane Harvey recovery. Then there’s Rockdale Christian Services Food Pantry, combined effort of local congregations which keeps donated food staple supplies on hand for distribution. There are two free giveaways a month and some local churches also operate independent efforts. Rockdale is blessed to have its Good Samaritans, in any season.—M.B.
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