Summary
Meg Cooper, Melissa Thomas with Mississippi’s Lower Delta Partnership along with Board Chairman Fred Miller, presented 4 checks totaling over $36,000 to the Sharkey Issaquena County Library Friends Group and the Rolling Fork Visitors Center and Museum 501c3.
Meg Cooper, Melissa Thomas with Mississippi’s Lower Delta Partnership along with LDP Board Chairman Fred Miller, presented 4 checks totaling over $36,000 to the Sharkey Issaquena County Library Friends Group and the Rolling Fork Visitors Center and Museum 501c3.
LDP coordinator, Meg Cooper, stated that they are pleased to be able to give this money to these two important community organizations that served vital roles in Rolling Fork. “The community wants them back, and whether they are rebuilt/repaired using insurance or FEMA money, we know there will be expenses that will not be covered. We hope these monies will help with any extra costs, and we want to thank everyone that made these donations possible.”
The Rolling Fork Visitors Center and Museum lost their building in the tornado, and it was such an important part of the tourism industry in the south delta. The center served as a draw for tourists from both the states and abroad, showcasing the interesting history and culture of the South Delta. Volunteers working at the center also directed visitors to local shops and eateries, helping to boost Rolling Fork’s economy.
The Sharkey Issaquena County Library is one of the cornerstone institutions in Rolling Fork, and not just for book borrowing. It serves an important role for residents searching for jobs and taking online courses. It also gives all members of the community a place to gather whether it was for organizational meetings, tutoring, children’s programs, or free internet service. All ages benefit from the library and librarian, Elissa Tucker, hopes that “these donations will facilitate the process of allowing the library to resume operations in a timely manner.”
Money was raised through donations and t shirt sales in the months following the tornado; these fundraisers were supported by Rolling Fork residents and friends from across the country. This money was divided evenly between the two organizations. Additionally, the RFVCM received a check from the Great Delta Bear Affair comprised of 2023 festival admissions and selected silent auction items. The SICL received an additional check with the profit from the 5th Thursday Alumni Group’s t shirt sales which LDP helped coordinate. LDP assistant, Melissa Thomas said, “LDP is happy to be a partner in these recovery efforts post tornado. We are all Rolling Fork Strong.”
Pictured Above – LDP Coordinator, Meg Cooper, RFVCM President, Leslie Miller, Victoria Garland with the 5th Thursday Alumni group, Fred Miller, LDP Board Chair, Elissa Tucker, SICL Librarian, Lynne Moses, SICL Board Chairman and GDBA co-chairman, Melissa Thomas, LDP .
