08/03/2009 - Duke Sports Information

DURHAM, N.C. – On July 19 the entire Duke football team headed over to the Durham Rescue Mission to spend time with young boys and girls for the afternoon.

“All you have to do is look around you and you realize children are happy,” head coach David Cutcliffe said. “It is not just because our players are here today, it’s a happy place and it’s a safe haven for all of these women and their children.”

The football team spent the afternoon playing football, signing autographs and enjoying lunch with the children.

 “This is a life changing experience here, and I think it’s important for our players to see these types of facilities and where they can understand this does go on out there in the community and this is a big difference maker here,” Cutcliffe said.

The Durham Rescue Mission helps families and individuals through tough times. The Rescue Mission was first opened in 1974 and is open 365 days a year providing food, clothing, shelter, vocational training, continuing education, job placement, permanent supportive housing, and Christian counseling.

“The Duke football team has been gracious enough to come over to sign footballs, posters and just give us their time and to show some of these kids some attention, and to encourage them to do right, to stay in school and follow their dreams,” Rob Tart, the Chief Operating Officer of the Durham Rescue Mission, said.