When Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM, https://drmm.org) draws business and civic leaders to its Banquet Hall at 3606 East Forest Street, Detroit this Friday, December 12, it would be to inspire hope and spread the joy of the season by distributing toys, winter hats, gloves, scarves, coats and socks to needy children at its Christmas party sponsored by Ford Motor Company.

The 11am to 2pm free admission event will feature local artist Al Bettis known for his “It is beautiful” album, DRMM Choir led by Carl Riggis, Mr and Ms Santa Claus, fun activities for children and free lunch.

“The Detroit Rescue Mission is there for our neighbors in need year round, providing support during the most difficult times,” said Janet Lawson, director, Ford Volunteer Corps. “To be able to help them lift spirits and spread the joy of the holiday season is a very special and humbling experience for Ford volunteers.”

In thanking the 20 Ford staff members that will volunteer at the event, DRMM president and CEO, Dr. Chad Audi, noted that “we couldn’t have given the hope and help we gave to thousands of people this year – the homeless, the hungry and the hurting – without our remarkable volunteers that number over 11, 000, and funding partners like Ford Motor Company that support our life-changing work.”