By Jessica Dillon
Members of the NAACP visited the Salvation Army on Dec. 12 to donate supplies to the Martinsville-Henry County Warming Center.
Martinsville Mayor LC Jones attended the event, offering remarks and encouraging continued community support for the shelter during the winter months.
“Through the historical doctrine and rich heritage of the Martinsville-Henry County NAACP, it has always and will continue to be our mission to support our local community in times of need, especially during this frigid weather and holiday season,” the organization said. “The NAACP has recognized the Salvation Army’s Warming Center as our giving companion for blankets, socks and toiletries in their time of need.”
Jones said the winter season is especially critical for the area’s most vulnerable residents.
“As everybody knows, this time of year is one of the most crucial times of year for those who are the most vulnerable here in our community of Martinsville and Henry County,” Jones said. “The NAACP has stepped up to the plate working with their community and partners in providing some things for our citizens who need warm items and health supplies.”
Jones also praised local Salvation Army Director Tequila Redd for her efforts to rally community support.
“She has done a wonderful job of getting the community to bring in needed donations for the center,” Jones said. “I think all of those who have stepped up — so many different organizations are providing for our citizens.”
Redd thanked the NAACP and other groups for their contributions.
“I will make sure that everyone who is in our warming center and our day center will take in all of these wonderful donations as you provided,” Redd said. She also thanked churches and businesses that helped gather supplies. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It’s very much helped.”
Redd said the day center operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting, and guests are welcome to stay overnight at the warming center.
“During this time of year, it’s good for us to have that 24/7 service to the unhoused, the most vulnerable,” she said.
The warming center opens on days when temperatures drop below 40 degrees. Weekly opening schedules are posted on the center’s Facebook page. The facility opens at 5 p.m. and can be accessed through the double glass doors on the lower side of the building facing Hardee’s.
Those interested in donating may drop off new, unused items at the Salvation Army and Warming Center, located at 603 S. Memorial Blvd. in Martinsville, between 7 and 9 a.m. or 7 and 9 p.m. Information on needed items and volunteer opportunities is available on Facebook at MHC Warming Center.
