1st Ward, partners to feed county staff
First Ward Living Grace Pantry, 1201 Commerce Road, is partnering with local restaurants to provide free groceries and hot meals to Jefferson County employees.
From 1-3 p.m. Thursday, all Jefferson County employees are invited to the pantry to receive groceries and a hot plate lunch.
“In response to the on-going financial challenges faced by Jefferson County employees, the First Ward Living Grace Pantry, led by Executive Director Debra Allen, is stepping up to support those in need,” according to a news release.
This initiative, made possible through a collaboration with several local restaurants, aims to offer relief to county employees who have yet to receive their paychecks. It is a gesture of support for those facing hardship and a reminder that the community stands together in times of need.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“Our goal is to ensure that no one in our community has to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Allen. “We are incredibly grateful for the local restaurants who have joined us in making this possible, and we hope this small gesture brings comfort and support to Jefferson County employees during a difficult time.” Details: Debra Allen, (479) 301-1096.
St. John sets ground-breaking for pantry
St. John Church, 1117 W. Pullen St., will conduct a ground-breaking ceremony at 2 p.m. Jan. 28 for its new food ministry distribution center.
“This state-of-the-art facility, generously gifted to the church by St. John Alexander Tower Inc., an Arkansas nonprofit corporation, represents a significant milestone in our decade-long commitment to combating food insecurity in our community,” according to a news release.
St. John has been distributing food for 10 years. Initiated by the church’s Lay Organization, the food ministry began by serving hot meals on Saturdays, which eventually expanded to include Sunday breakfasts.
As the church observed the growing need, especially exacerbated by the devastation of covid-19, the service directions evolved to meet these pressing needs.
Through grant funds, the support of church members, and community partnerships, the ministry now provides between 100 and 150 boxes of groceries monthly. These efforts are further extended to support the Department of Human Services, public school districts, circuit court, and Group Violence Intervention referrals, to reach as many people as possible.
“The realization of this ground-breaking ceremony is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our board of directors at St. John Alexander Tower Inc., led by President Sharon Fletcher. Alongside board members (retired) Judge Leon Jamison, Pamela Johnson, Frank Anthony, Calvin Matlock, Mayor Vivian Flowers, Dr. Adrienne Cooper, and the Rev. David Vaughn Jr., we remain committed to enhancing the feeding ministry of St. John AME Church,” according to the release.
The ceremony will symbolize the official start of construction for the new distribution center. This event brings together key participants who have been instrumental in the effort, including:
Bishop Silvester S. Beamon, presiding prelate for the 12th Episcopal District;
The Rev. James R. Hooper, presiding elder for the Pine Bluff Helena District;
The Rev. Charlene N. Boone, pastor of St. John AME Church.
“We are honored to have their presence and support as we embark on this significant venture. Their leadership and guidance have been invaluable in steering our ministry towards this momentous achievement,” according to the release.
The public is invited to join the church in celebrating this ground-breaking ceremony.
“Your presence will not only add to the joy of this occasion but also reinforce the collective effort and community spirit that underpin our mission. Together, we can continue to make strides in addressing food insecurity and fostering a more supportive and nourished community,” according to the release.
Exodus.Life plans open house
Exodus.Life, 316 W. Sixth Ave., will host an open house and ribbon cutting from noon to 3 p.m. Jan. 31. Refreshments will be served, according to a flyer.
“Exodus.Life is a 501c3, non-profit organization, dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate addiction treatment services to individuals, no matter where they are in their recovery journey,” according to its website.
The community is invited to attend. To RSVP, visit www.exodus.life.