MIDLAND On Aug. 4, The Way Retreat Center (TWRC) and Holy Cross Catholic High School (HCCHS) hosted a breakfast for first responders in the Midland/Odessa area.
The breakfast was held at TWRC and was a gesture of thanks to all first responders.
“Our first responders are there to serve us every day and this was a small token of our appreciation. The pandemic proved to be a difficult time for many and work schedules changed, but the work of our first responders did not ever let up. They put themselves at risk everyday to make sure our community is safe” Dan Varner, president of The Way Retreat Center Board of Directors, said.
This is the third annual First Responders Appreciation Breakfast hosted by TWRC. The Way Retreat Center was excited to co-host this event with Holy Cross Catholic High School this year. The students and staff helped serve and host the event. They were given the opportunity to serve over 50 first responders.
“One of the foundational elements of a Holy Cross education is a commitment to service. All of our students are mentored and encouraged to seek ways to give back and serve their community. Having the opportunity to engage with and say ‘thank you’ to the first responders in our community is both an honor and a privilege.” Brad Gibson, president of Holy Cross Catholic High School Board of Directors, said,
This is an event that TWRC and HCCHS hope to continue to make a tradition. There were to-go boxes available for those that were not able to attend the event because they were in the field serving the com-munity.
“It is our prayer that our students listen and act on their own unique call to make a difference by serving others with their gifts.” Gibson says “The opportunity to have real life examples from law enforcement, fire departments, EMT and all first responders, that serve our community every day will be an inspiration to our students.”
“We are excited to keep the tradition of the First Responders Appreciation Breakfast going year after year. The Way Retreat Center and Holy Cross want to continue this service to those that serve us.” Varner says “We are grateful for our first responders and will continue to pray for our community and all those that continue to give back by their service.”
“I look forward to this event every year. Although I was not able to attend it this year due to a scheduling conflict, I know it was great. The folks at The Way Retreat Center understand the pressure and stress that your law enforcement personnel go through daily. Not only does it affect us, but our families as well. This breakfast allows us to get together with fellow law enforcement officers in our area and enjoy a good meal. It gives us time to fellowship with one another.” Sheriff David Criner said.
