1st Ward pantry aids county staff
The First Ward Living Grace Pantry, 1201 Commerce Road, will open Feb. 21 from 1-3 p.m. for all Jefferson County employees to receive free groceries, hot meals, and more.
Although Jefferson County employees received long-awaited paychecks after state intervention, it’s time to celebrate, according to a news release.
The event will feature Karen Wolfe, singer of the line dance single “Have A Good Time.”
This initiative was made possible through collaboration with FWLGP, Arkansas Food Bank, Metal Roof Pros, Saracen Casino Resort and Central Moloney Inc.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The program aims to offer much needed relief to Jefferson County employees who have just received their pay, after weeks of not receiving one. It is a gesture of support for those facing hardship and a reminder that the community stands together in times of need, according to the release.
“Our goal is to ensure that no one in our community has to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Debra Allen, executive director of the pantry. “We are incredibly grateful to those who have joined us in making this possible, and we hope this brings comfort and support to Jefferson County employees still going through a difficult time.” Details: (479) 301-1096 or https://firstwardpantry.wixsite.com/fwlgp.
Black Hall of Fame grants available
Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation, in partnership with Arkansas Community Foundation, is providing funding opportunities for nonprofits that serve African American or underserved populations in Arkansas. Proposals will be accepted online through April 1.
Eligible nonprofits with programs focused on education, health and wellness, youth development, strengthening families and economic development are encouraged to apply, according to a news release.
“We are deeply grateful to our donors, whose unwavering support allows us to make grants to grassroots organizations making a real difference in communities across Arkansas,” said Charles Stewart, ABHOF chair. “As challenges evolve, it remains essential to invest in organizations working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for our citizens.”
Since 2004, ABHOF has granted more than $822,000 to nonprofits across the state. These awards, funded by donors to the Black Hall of Fame, have included support for mental health support groups, financial literacy workshops, and other initiatives that empower communities and improve quality of life.
“Our long-standing partnership with Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation is a continued source of pride as they work to meet the needs of Arkansas communities,” said Heather Larkin, president and CEO of the Community Foundation. “We’re proud to be the administrator for this grant cycle.”
Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, hospitals, public schools, and government agencies are eligible to apply now through April 1 at www.arcf.org/ABHOF. Organizations that do not qualify for tax-exempt status are not eligible.
AGFC seeks summer interns
College students looking for hands-on experience in conservation have until March 15 to submit an application for a summer internship with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Internships are available for a broad range of academic majors, including forestry, wildlife management, fisheries management, environmental interpretation, environmental science, biological research and law enforcement, according to a news release.
Each of these part-time positions offers special opportunities and training to give students insight into the conservation field. For many, this is the chance to explore what research in a hatchery or lab for the agency looks like day-to-day.
“Internships provide a clear vision of what the student wants out of their future by offering hands-on experience and exposure to various roles within the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission,” said Lauren Cannon, facility manager for Ponca Nature Center and post-secondary outreach coordinator. “This allows students to identify areas where they could potentially fit within our agency.”
Opportunities are available across the state. Internships can be up to 320 hours and pay an established hourly rate of $13 per hour with an approximate 40 hour work-week.
Selected interns must coordinate with their college or university directly to obtain course credit for this internship.
The deadline to apply is March 15. Details: www.agfc.com/jobs. Attach a current resume, one page cover letter and official college transcript to your application.