The Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission announced the donation of $50,000 by the AT&T Foundation, the philanthropic arm of AT&T, on Jan. 18 in a press conference.

The grant is designated to help the children of homeless families by upgrading the children’s educational facilities and playground area. AT&T Regional Director Troy J. Broussard presented the check to Rescue Mission officials. Also attending was Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell and Mission Board Chairman Mike Byrd.

Over 200 children, from infants to age 17, reside with their families at the Rescue Mission each year.

“We would publicly like to thank Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell for his ongoing personal investment in and support of our mission. Additionally, we extend our sincere appreciation to AT&T for caring about the homeless children in our area,” said Rev. Henry Martin, executive director of the Rescue Mission. “These improvements will help children through an unsettling time in their lives.”

Enhancements to the Mission’s children’s program will include educational tables and chairs for the children’s area, a television with DVD player, dry erase boards, a computer and educational software, commercial grade playground equipment, and partial salary for the Children’s Coordinator.

The Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission exists to pursue the passion of Jesus Christ to lift up the hungry, homeless, abused, and addicted. The Mission provides shelter, food, clothing, medical and dental care, social services, and counseling for about 1,200 homeless men, women, and families with children each year.