ROCHESTER, N.Y. — News10NBC is collecting donations for the Open Door Mission this Friday at ESL Ballpark. Donations can be brough to the ballpark’s parking lot next to the Wegmans Performance Center between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.
News10NBC’s Erin Mahon sat down with the Open Door’s new CEO, Robert Williams, to learn more about the work the organization does in the community. Open Door Mission has served the community since 1952, and last year alone it provided a bed 31,000 times to people and distributed more than 700,000 pounds of food.
From emergency services like housing and food to long-term care with shopping appointments and programs, Open Door fills many roles.
“I often see the mission as a light on the hill that really is there to draw those who are in need and support,” Williams said.
Williams came to Rochester nearly 20 years ago for addiction recovery. He started at Open Door 12 years ago running the kitchen, and last Friday he took over as CEO.
When asked how Open Door has changed over the years, Williams explained the growth.
“Well it’s changed a lot. When I came here 12 years ago we had about two programs, three programs, and two buildings. Today, we have six buildings and perhaps seven programs,” Williams said. He also attributed recent growth to former CEO Anna Valeria, like opening Coldwater House — a transitional housing program for homeless mothers.
Faith guides Open Door’s mission, and serves an important role in Williams’ life, but it’s not a requirement to be seen.
“We welcome everyone. And we help anyone. So your religious background or where you come from has no question,” Williams said.
Kamika Dash is one of the first faces folks see when they donate or stop by for an appointment. Dash says she spends about five to six hours a day sorting through donations. The team takes care to go through clothes and make sure nothing has rips or holes, that the shoes are clean, and only accepts new underwear.
“We all need something. We all need help. And it’s nice to be able to be here for them with a smile and let them know that we are here for them,” Dash said.
News10NBC will be at ESL Ballpark starting at 6 a.m. on Friday accepting donations. You can bring food, household items like detergent or blankets, and clothes, specifically clothes for kids and infants. If you’re not able to give, Open Door needs volunteers as well.
After the success of December’s Big Give, the Open Door will probably need a lot of help sorting through donations. The mission welcomes anyone willing to donate their time to serve.
News10NBC collecting donations for Open Door Mission this Friday at ESL ballpark WHEC.com.
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