Reach For Joy members front row from left, Linda Hamer, Kaitlyn Hartman, Cindy Stapleton, Beth Robinson, Suzanne Lammay, Kara Miller, back row: John Hamer, Larry Kahar, Diana Kahar, Deb Cox, Henry Hartman, Denise Rudnick in front of Sonney’s BBQ Shack Bar and Grill.
Sonney’s BBQ Shack Bar and Grill might be closed for baby back ribs and tri trip sandwiches, but the building remains open for the use of Reach for Joy during the holiday season.
Reach for Joy is a community outreach program ministry of High Sierra Fellowship.
The program began six years ago in member Kara Miller’s home with 20 volunteers and has grown to over 300 members from all over the community.
“We saw a need in the community and wanted to serve,” said Miller. “Wherever there is a need, we go to help.”
Miller said Reach for Joy supports many organizations in the community, including; assisted living and senior centers, Life Choices, China Spring, and more and provide outreach programs such as food bags to those in need throughout the year with the annual Veteran Appreciation BBQ on Memorial Day and Christmas being the largest projects.
“We gave 450 families meal bags during the first Christmas outreach program six years ago and the number has greatly increased each year,” said Miller.
Miller said it became apparent that Reach for Joy had outgrown the space provided at High Sierra Fellowship when 3,000 bags were distributed in 2023.
“This year we anticipate 4,000 family meal bags but have been preparing for 5,000 bags in case the need is greater than we think,” she said.
That’s where Sonney’s BBQ comes in. The operator donated the restaurant to Reach for Joy so they can make and distribute bags from there in addition to the church to reach as many families as possible.
“He (Sonney) has been very accommodating and truly wants to help the community,” said Miller. “The road construction had such a negative impact on his business, but this is a way to do something positive.”
The food bags contain ham, canned vegetables, mac & cheese, rolls, fresh fruit, and dessert and will be available at Sonny’s BBQ 12:30 p.m. to 3p.m. Dec. 15. There will be two times 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and -7 p.m. Dec. 16, 18 and 20 while supplies last. Bags will also be available at High Sierra Fellowship 9:30 a.m. to noon Dec. 15.
For more information call High Sierra Fellowship at 775-782-7486.
