Community Generosity Shines: Lhoist and Ready Mix USA Bring Christmas Joy to Randolph Elementary
By Savannah Logan
For yet another year, family-owned businesses are directly investing into the lives of Bibb County families at Randolph Elementary School (RES). Just like last year, both Lhoist and Ready Mix USA showed their commitment to giving back by providing food, clothing, as well as Christmas gifts to 27 families, totaling 47 children, at RES.
Organized by the “Randolph Christmas Crew” at the elementary school, needs are assessed, wishes are heard, and all of these things are readily communicated back to some of Santa’s best helpers. It would be all too easy to donate a lump sum to RES, but no – these companies go above and beyond, intentionality poured into every item that is purchased. Reflecting on the character and integrity of the employees and companies alike, Ready Mix USA and Lhoist cover the cost of the food and clothing, while the employees volunteer their own time and funds to cover the cost of the toys.
The process begins with a list of students’ clothing and shoe sizes, which Lhoist and Ready Mix USA split and fulfill with enthusiasm. Each company shared the sentiment: “It’s the best time of the year for us.” Employees from both companies take the time to shop for each item, ensuring the children receive high-quality essentials that meet their needs and satisfy their wants, too. They also provide boxes of food, ensuring that no family goes hungry over the holidays. Each year, these two companies go above and beyond, often contributing additional funds to include extra groceries and special treats, ensuring families have a hearty and joyful holiday meal. Assuring RES over and over, whatever they needed, they would do their best to provide.
Originally focused on providing basic clothing items like jackets, shoes, and pants, the project has grown significantly over the years. Today, it includes not only essential clothing but also gifts and toys, all made possible by the combined generosity of employees, community members, and local businesses. This year alone, the initiative supported 27 families, impacting the lives of 47 children, from infants to teenagers, ensuring that no child in need is left out.
One of the most thoughtful aspects of the program is its discreet distribution process. Families are able to collect the items from the school privately, preserving the magic of Christmas morning. This ensures that children can wake up to gifts they might not otherwise receive, creating cherished memories and a sense of joy that lasts well beyond the holiday season. At RES, thanks to the generosity of their community around them, no child is left behind or forgotten.
The generosity of Ready Mix USA and Lhoist doesn’t stop when the holidays end. Throughout the school year, monthly birthday parties for RES students are sponsored, complete with balloons, ice cream, and a chance for every child to feel celebrated – even with sprinkles! They also contribute books to the school library, help fund students’ book purchases at book fairs, and provide books for the book vending machine, demonstrating a year-round commitment to the well-being and education of RES students. Meeting as many needs as possible, even the benches in front of RES were donated.
Principal Hollie Tillery expressed deep gratitude, emphasizing its profound impact on the school community and for all of their combined efforts in “investing in and loving kids and their families they don’t even know.” Thanking them all sincerely for caring, Tillery was once again blown away by the unwavering generosity of Lhoist and Ready Mix USA.
The dedication of the “Randolph Christmas Crew,” including Sarah Gurly, RES Counselor, cannot be overlooked, whose joint efforts in coordination make the program possible.
The annual Christmas initiative at Randolph Elementary School stands as a shining example of how businesses, schools, and individuals can unite to make a meaningful difference. Through their continued generosity and spirit of giving, Lhoist and Ready Mix USA have not only brightened the holidays for local families but also strengthened the bonds of community, as well as spreading joy, hope, and kindness to those who need it most.
What a beautiful thing – and what an attitude we should all endeavor to adopt in our own lives! Merry Christmas to all, and may the generosity of Ready Mix USA and Lhoist inspire a bit more giving in our own lives this holiday season.
