KINDNESS ROLLS AT LOCAL LANES
Roger’s Roost hosts bowling fundraiser to benefit Macomb Foster Closet, families
Dozens of bowlers were tossing bowling balls for books, blankets and breakfast items for families of local foster children Sunday at a fundraising event at Sterling Lanes in Sterling Heights.
Roger’s Roost restaurant, just a few doors down from the bowling alley on Schoenherr Road north of 14 Mile Road, hosted the event for Macomb Foster Closet. The Foster Closet is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization serving area children in foster care.
Brian Majewski, a manager at Roger’s Roost who helped organize the fundraiser, said he learned of the organization through Renee Murray, a former server who has taken in a few foster kids over the years.
“We are a staple of the community and we enjoy giving back to the community, and it’s a great cause,” he said.
Majewski described people like Renee Murray and her husband, Bill, as “saints” for their selfless actions in providing a loving household for foster kids as well as feeding and clothing them.
At least 150 bowlers — Roger’s Roost customers, workers and former employees — paid $25 each for the event. Afterward, a pizza party was held for all participants at the eatery. In addition, there were various raffles for donated items, which generated additional revenue for the organization.
Kevin McAlpine, president of the Foster Closet, said the group provides clothing and other essential items to about 2,000 children in foster care. He said every dollar received goes to support for the caring efforts of foster families.
“Roger’s Roost is a good example of a business or civic group or church that steps up in the community to give us a helping hand,” he said.
Last year, the Macomb Foster Closet had to move out of its home at the former Washington Academy School in Mount Clemens. It has since found a new “forever home” in the former Second