CROWN POINT, Indiana | The Merrillville Rotary Club is helping to offset the expense of holiday meals for families in need with what has become an annual tradition. Club members delivered 50 $50 Strack & Van Til gift cards to Franciscan Health St. Clare Health Clinic in Crown Point. The cards will go to mothers in the Prenatal Assistance Program and other hospital patients in need.
Merrillville Rotarians began their tradition by donating turkeys for distribution, but in recent years, decided that gift cards would better serve the needs of local families. “We evolved and became wiser,” said club member Jim Larsen, noting that the money for the gift cards came from at least 20 donations, including three from non-members.
“You take it for granted when you show up for Thanksgiving dinner and there’s so much food you can’t eat it all. This will help those who really need it,” Larsen said.
“You’re allowing the people who are receiving the gift cards to do what’s best for their family,” said Franciscan Health Foundation Director of Development Debbie Tatum.
The St. Clare Health Clinic, at 1121 Indiana Ave. in Crown Point, is a primary care provider of non-emergency services with an emphasis on prevention, early detection, patient education, physical exams and health screenings. The Prenatal Assistance Program, housed at the clinic, provides vital prenatal care and outreach to expectant mothers with limited family income. For clinic hours, call (219) 663-2160. Or call the Prenatal Assistance Program at (219) 663-5349. To donate to the Prenatal Assistance Fund, call the Franciscan Health Foundation at (219) 661-3401.
