ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - The United Way of Roanoke Valley's RYSE program received a $5,000 donation on Thursday.
Green Memorial United Methodist Church donated the money to help the program, which helps homeless families in the city of Roanoke.
Church leaders say the church received the money years ago and they were waiting for the right cause to come along. They said the money needed to go to RYSE because it teaches families the skills they need to be successful.
The program also houses families in need, which can have a big impact on children.
"We know the need. We know that there are close to 600 homeless children in Roanoke City Schools. RYSEÂ is addressing that issue through the families and it just seems to be the most appropriate way to start making a difference and start helping others," said Debbie Brown, Dir. of Program Ministries, Green Memorial UMC.
It costs about $8,000 to house one family.
The United Ways said because of today's donation and the money raised during our the WSLS 10 Cares RYSE Up Roanoke Telethon, the program can now serve about eight local families.