Albany, NY (November 22, 2007) - Today, members of the Albany Patroons basketball team spent time assisting and working with residents at the Capital City Rescue Mission, as part of the Mission's Thanksgiving services for the homeless and persons in need.

The day began with a worship service in the mission's chapel, where Patroons coach Vincent Askew took time to testify to those in attendees about how God helped save his life and helped him stay on a straight path, and that God can help all who take God into their life.

Then the Mission began its annual Thanksgiving dinner for Albany's homeless and persons in need. Among those greeting and welcoming the dinees were Patroons teammates Shawn Hawkins and Tom Sadler, who signed autographs, posed for photos, and talked with kids and adults alike. Coach Askew also helped bring awareness to a health fair the Mission held that day in conjunction with Albany Medical Center. The Health Fair, which provided free checkups and screenings for high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease, also distributed free flu shots for those at risk. Coach Askew was the first person to roll up his sleeve and take a shot to protect himself against contracting this year's strain of influenza.

For more information on how you can contribute your services to the Capital City Rescue Mission, visit their homepage at capitalcityrescuemission.com.