Freeze Foundation Hosts Palmer Home Children At Spring Practice

Yesterday, the Freeze Foundation welcomed children from the Palmer Home to the Ole Miss campus.
The Christian-based residence has 110 kids living on two campuses, and the organization aims to provide a safe place for children of all ages whose parents are unable to care for them.
The organization’s partnership with the Freeze Foundation began just over a year ago, and they were honored to host them at the athletic facilities for the day. 
“Our partnership with Palmer Home is very important to us as they were our first organization we began serving with in Mississippi,” said Alice Blackmon, executive director of the foundation. “Their mission and heartbeat align directly with ours, which makes the partnership inevitable and solid. We continue to serve internationally as well, but there is something so special about coming home and sharing God’s love with the children of our own state who need us the most. The joy that comes from seeing these children interact with our football players and coaches is indescribable and beyond rewarding.”
After a tour of the Manning Center, indoor practice field and a walk down the tunnel onto the field at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, the children were taken up to watch the Rebels practice as they gear up for Saturday’s spring game. Upon arrival, they were greeted by head coach Hugh Freeze, who gave the kids a warm welcome. After getting acquainted with everyone, Freeze answered questions about football, his favorite foods and more.

The introductions didn’t stop there as the Palmer Home children were taken around the practice field and gave the offensive and defensive linemen a much-needed break. Players signed autographs, took pictures and spoke with all of the children. Seeing them laugh, have fun and be a part of the Rebel family is all about perspective in Freeze’s eyes. 
“I’m all about perspective; that’s kind of my word right now. The wins will be forgotten, but if you can make a difference in someone’s life, that will change them forever,” Freeze said. “That’s what we as believers should be about daily, and that’s really the mission of our foundation. I’m thankful for the leadership of the Palmer Home and the job Alice has done with this partnership, and also the ATO’s on campus [another partner of the Palmer Home].” 
Sarah Hollis, vice president of engagement for the Palmer Home, enjoyed seeing the kids faces as they had an experience they will surely never forget.  
“Their faces tell the story. This is so exciting and special, and they deserve that. They deserve the best experiences possible,” Hollis said.

To learn more about the Palmer Home, visit their website palmerhome.org. 

Steven Gagliano is a writer for HottyToddy.com. He can be reached at steven.gagliano@hottytoddy.com. 
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