The Denny Menholt Group in Rapid City stepped up in a big way for families enrolled in Youth & Family Services (YFS) programs this past week! The area business made a generous donation that allowed YFS to purchase 416 Thanksgiving meals which were distributed to families enrolled in the organization’s programs.

“This has been a difficult year for all of us,” said Krista Morrison, Director of Marketing and Communications for Denny Menholt Auto Group. “Local businesses like ours are trying to balance providing our services while also protecting our employees and customers. As winter approaches, we recognize that our community programs are also struggling.”

Morrison went on to explain, “Their [YFS] major fundraising events have been canceled, which means they don’t have all the funding needed to support area families and individuals. We stand behind our mission that together we make a difference in our community. The Denny Menholt dealerships wanted to make an additional donation this year because we recognize the need to empower the amazing people who run these programs, and we hope that our commitment will inspire others to do the same.”

YFS partnered with Timmons Market to order the food items that would make up each meal. In addition to placing and organizing the order, Timmons allowed YFS to purchase the food at a reduced rate; this enabled the non-profit to stretch their funds, thereby feeding more families.

“We feel very fortunate to be in the position that we are in during these trying times,” shared Dan Bruner, Co-Owner of Timmons Market. “YFS reached out to us early on during the pandemic, and we have forged a partnership that allows us to leverage our ability to bring in goods that people need, and YFS’ ability to get those goods to the people who need them most.”

Bruner noted a large part of their business is based on their Christian faith. “We believe that we are called to not only provide a business to our community, but to be able to give back when able. When we received a call about the generous offer from the Denny Menholt Auto group, we knew we wanted to participate in any way we could. As a grocer in the Rapid City area, helping organizations who combat food insecurity is a large part of our culture, and we look forward to working with YFS in the future to continue making a positive impact with families in our community.”  

Each of the 416 families were given a turkey, two cans of corn, 5 lbs. of potatoes, gravy, Jello, dinner rolls, and a pie. The items were delivered to YFS’ East Adams Street location on two different days by Timmons Market employees. YFS staff assembled the meals on November 20. That same day, families were able to pick up their meals. YFS staff delivered meals to enrolled families living outside Rapid City.

“The generosity that the Denny Menholt Group and Timmons Market have extended to these families is just unbelievable,” shared Connie Olson, YFS’ Chief Development Officer. “We are truly thankful for this kind and compassionate donation, and are so grateful for the continued support YFS receives from these wonderful community partners.”