CHESAPEAKE, Va. — As we made our way into the community thrift store at Indian River Baptist Church in Chesapeake, we spotted this week's Everyday Hero award winner: Darlene Phillips.
We presented her with the award, along with a $300 Visa gift card from community partner Southern Bank.
“Oh my gosh I can’t believe it,” exclaimed a very surprised Phillips as she received the award.
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Church member Sue Rodgers nominated Phillips.
“We just wanted to show you how much you are appreciated for what you do," said Rogers. "You give so much and yet get so little."
Phillips keeps all the records for the church, Rodgers tells us. She also takes in the donations that fill the makeshift store with things to help families in need.
“Kids can’t help what moms and dads go through, so it's really for the kids. They need shoes, they need clothes, they need all that and they can’t support themselves,” said our teary-eyed award winner.
“Parents just need a little help and this helps them not to have to buy those things and they can pay a bill or put food on the table,” said Phillips.
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Portsmouth residents Dwain and Linda Ware have 11 kids. They say being able to come and shop here with Phillips has been huge for them.
“That’s another mother right there. Whatever you need, if you tell her, she’ll get it for you. Whether it clothes, shoes, even shelter, [she'll do] whatever it takes or she’ll put you on the right path."
When Phillips thanked us, I responded, "You are certainly welcome and we appreciate what you do for this community and I know these folks here appreciate it as well.”
