A Thrill of Hope

Envolve purchases lunch for Hopewell Heights residents from locally-owned Saucy’s

HOPEWELL, VA — Individuals and local businesses alike have suffered greatly due to the effects of COVID-19, and the new owners of Hopewell Heights decided to do what they could to help.

Envolve LLC wanted to support its communities during these uncertain times. The company decided to provide lunches for all residents of Hopewell Heights on 12/18—but instead of purchasing from a chain restaurant, they chose locally-owned Saucy’s BBQ.

“We know that restaurants in particular have suffered significant losses in sales because of lockdowns and capacity limits,” said Daniel Hughes, Chairman & CEO of Envolve LLC. “The Envolve Resident Lunch Program is a way for us to give back—not only to local businesses, but to our amazing residents. During uncertain times like these, we feel especially compelled to live out our tagline of ‘Making Communities Better Together.’”

The on-site team members served cold drinks and hot meals to Hopewell Heights residents at the event (which was aptly named the “Home for the Holidays Luncheon”). Some of the delicious choices included macaroni & cheese, sweet potatoes, coleslaw, potato salad, and the main event: a pulled pork or pulled chicken sandwich from Saucy’s BBQ. This local favorite has been named Southern Living’s choice for “The South's Best Butt” twice over, so when it came time to choose a restaurant to patronize, the Hopewell Heights staff dubbed Saucy’s “an easy decision!”

“When the residents found out we were having a December luncheon, they were overjoyed,” said Kanesha Drayton, Assistant Community Manager of Hopewell Heights. “Some would even come by the office daily to let us know they couldn’t wait.”

The group kicked off the festivities by handing out certificates and gifts to the oldest residents at Hopewell (88- and 86-years young), as well as a family with two small children that the property sponsored for the holiday season. Then a gift card was presented to the 25th resident to arrive at the event.

“After lunch was over, the residents did some socially distanced dancing with the staff while the children played ball with our Maintenance Supervisor, Travis Talley,” said Christie Jackson, Resident Services Coordinator at Hopewell Heights. “The whole event really lifted their spirits during these hard times, and we were even able to work out a way to reincorporate the seniors’ beloved bingo game the following Monday.”

Kena Stith, Community Manager of Hopewell Heights, agreed that the luncheon was a resounding success for all involved. “The smiles on everyone’s faces were the absolute highlight of the entire function. One of my favorite moments was watching that sweet 2-year-old boy light up when he opened his presents. It embodied the season of giving, and I look forward to many more events like this to come!”