MADISON – Staff and volunteers at the Downtown Rescue Mission in Huntsville are reminding residents of the importance of giving to help individuals and families in need.

“This time of year is filled with joyful anticipation as we await the birth of Jesus. But for many hurting and hungry friends in the Tennessee Valley, it is also filled with worry and fear,” Keith Overholt said. He is President/CEO of Downtown Rescue Mission.

“Thousands of children, women and men in our community don’t know when they can count on their next meal. That’s why we’re asking faithful supporters to help us reach our goal of providing 57,000 holiday meals this year,” Overholt said.

A donor can provide a meal and help lift spirits this Christmas season for only $2.04. “Together, we can share the joy and renewed hope that Christ’s birth brings with those who need it most,” Overholt said. “Please give generously and help make sure everyone in our community can access the meals and spiritual support they need this holiday season.”

With planning and scheduling for food distribution, the mission staff can expand a small donation to feed a surprisingly large number of meals. For example, with a donation of $24.48, the gift will help 12 people; $51, 25 people; $102, 50 individuals; $248.88, 122 people.

Last year, the Rescue Mission averaged 275 nightly guests; served 326,662 meals, produced program graduates for 53 people; distributed 52,420 articles of clothing; and logged 26,471 volunteer hours from benevolent residents.

A Downtown Rescue Mission Thrift Store also generates revenue. Thrift stores sell donated items, with all proceeds going directly back to the mission to provide food, clothing, shelter and Christian education to anyone who needs it.

The thrift stores carry a wide selection of brand-name clothing, household items, furniture, electronics, major appliances, computers and bedding. A mission can pick up donations.

Currently, Madison Thrift Store is located at 8006 Old Madison Pike, Suite 10. However, a new facility is under construction near the intersection of Hughes Road and Browns Ferry Road. Other stores operate in Albertville, Athens, Decatur, Meridianville and in Huntsville on Winchester Road and at 1407-A N. Memorial Parkway. Call toll-free at 1-855-DRM-SAVE (1-855-376-7283).

Donations can be dropped off at any location Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The mission address is 1400 Evangel Drive NW in Huntsville. For more information, call 256-536-2441 or visit downtownrescuemission.org.