Robinson spoke about the ARM, in partnership with local nonprofit organizations and city leaders, hosting a roundtable discussion on issues affecting the homeless from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Thursday, November 9, 2023, at First Methodist-Downtown Jackson, located at 200 South Church Street, in Jackson, Tennessee, with the hope of improving local systems and procedures to benefit neighbors in need.

According to Robinson and a news release from ARM, the goal of the roundtable discussion is to brainstorm new ways to help break the cycle of homelessness in the Jackson area. ARM’s leaders have invited participants who specialize in fields such as healthcare, housing, mental health services, vocational services and crisis centers, along with volunteers from local churches to attend the meeting. Such individuals can help to evaluate the current methods that influence West Tennessee’s Continuum of Care (COC).

Robin said the main presenter during the discussion will be Neru Gobin, director of housing and homeless services for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

The news release said, "Gobin leads 15 service delivery programs and initiatives that collectively provide supportive housing, housing support, and homeless outreach services across Tennessee. He also oversees the Tennessee Creating Homes Initiative, which leverages resources to further the statewide efforts to provide safe, quality, affordable permanent housing opportunities for Tennesseans experiencing mental illness, co-occurring disorders and substance use disorders. The initiative expanded its efforts by adding a focus on permanent housing for Tennesseans in recovery from substance use disorders and who reenter the community from prisons and jails. Additional panelists will also contribute to the discussion."

A faith-based nonprofit organization, Area Relief Ministries has been serving West Tennessee since the 1970s. ARM’s mission is to strengthen our community by providing services that alleviate suffering, promote dignity and foster hope for those in need… as an expression of the ongoing ministry of Jesus Christ (areareliefministries.org). With the help of generous sponsors, volunteers and partner groups, ARM regularly meets the needs of the growing number of homeless in the community by offering housing services, dental/medical/emergency assistance and vocational training.

In order to learn more or to become involved, individuals may contact Fred McKinnie at 731-423-9257 or fmckinnie@areareliefministries.org.

Moore and Maxwell will talk about how they came to work at the Center, how the Center helps children and adults, and what gives them joy about working at the Center.

Moore and Maxwell will also share information about the Center’s upcoming fundraising event: 10th Annual Speaking of Art event.

Please join the Center Thursday, May 4, 2023, for a night at the New Southern Hotel, located at 118 E. Baltimore Street, in Jackson, Tennessee, with art for purchase by West Tennessee's local artist. Heavy hors d oeuvres by neighboring restaurants will be served, all while listening to music by the Jackson Symphony.

This event helps West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center's, "Everyone's Voice Should Be Heard," grant program. The purpose of this funding grant is to provide financial assistance to children and adults within the community who need help paying for treatment, devices, and other services that will allow them to communicate better. Purchase your tickets today at www.eventbrite.com.

If you have any questions, please contact the Center’s office at 731-668-6076 or visit www.wthsc.com.

Trice Martin and Brou spoke about the organizations numerous events and projects: Juneteenth Freedom Day Festival, Harlem Nights Fund Raiser, Miss Jackson Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant, Kwanzaa and the 33rd Annual African Street Festival.

The African Street Festival, will be held Labor Day Weekend (Friday, Sept. 1 through Sunday, September 3) at T.R. White Sportsplex, 304 North Hays Avenue, in Jackson, Tenn.

For more information about the festival and SAACA, visit www.saaca.com and SAACA's official Facebook page, The Society for African American Cultural Awareness.