I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support shown by the citizens of Meridian for the eight families from the Western Gardens housing community.
On July 11th, an arson fire occurred which displaced over thirty-five (35) residents. Although the fire disrupted the day-to-day operations at MHA, in addition to interrupting the routine life styles of the families involved, we are grateful that all residents escaped this tragedy without injury.
Hats off to MHA’s Resident Advisory Board leadership for initiating swift actions to care for the immediate needs of families involved in this unfortunate event. Both the “Fish Fry Fundraiser” and the “Meridian Community Initiative” were very successful events and provided resources necessary to get each family focused and moving in the right direction.
Special thanks to our local media outlets for keeping the public informed of the specific needs of each family. Thumbs up to the MHA Community and Supportive Services Department for visiting the families each day while they resided in hotel rooms across the City.
Although the response for clothing needs surpassed our expectations, the need for items such as bunk beds, tables and chairs is still ongoing.
Your tax deductible monetary donation will be accepted at any local Trustmark Bank location. Contact Irma Alexander at (601) 693-4285 if you would like to assist the families of the Western Gardens arson fire
Thanks again for your support,
Ronald J. Turner, Sr., PHM
