Supporting MEWI when it matters most

The Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute continues to serve families facing significant hardship, and this year has brought an even greater level of uncertainty for many in our community. Rising food prices, reductions in assistance programs such as SNAP and WIC, and ongoing economic strain have created a sharp increase in the number of patients and families seeking help from the EversCare Clinic and the EversCare Food Pantry.

MEWI is deeply grateful for the meaningful gifts received this year from the Mississippi Public Health Institute, the Mississippi State Department of Health, and the UMMC Department of Orthopaedics. Their generosity strengthens our ability to support families during a time when the need is growing faster than the resources available. We also recognize the essential contributions of our volunteers, especially the nursing students from the UMMC School of Nursing, who donate their time to ensure families receive care with dignity and compassion.

In recent weeks the pantry has also benefited from several substantial donations prompted by MEWI’s call for support through social media. Contributions from the UMMC Dialysis Clinic at the Jackson Medical Mall and from the Mississippi Public Health Institute in partnership with the Mississippi State Department of Health have helped replenish shelves at a critical time. MEWI also received its largest recent donation from former MEWI social worker Regina Wilcox-Lewis and her organization Restoring Hope, in partnership with Greater New Jerusalem M.B. Church. Their gift provided essential food supplies not only to MEWI, but to additional food pantries and shelters across the Jackson area.

Community partnership remains at the heart of MEWI’s mission. At a recent EversCare Pantry distribution Ms. Halla Mustafa attended on behalf of the Islamic Circle of North America Relief to provide diapers to families who requested them. ICNA participated with permission from the Mississippi Urban League, an invaluable partner of the pantry. These collaborations reflect the collective effort required to meet the complex needs of families who rely on MEWI for support.

As demand continues to rise, MEWI depends on the generosity of partners, volunteers, and supporters to help families navigate this difficult moment. Those who wish to support the EversCare Food Pantry can make a gift or sign up to volunteer at the following link: https://bit.ly/GiveECFP

Together we can continue meeting families where they are, providing essential resources, and working toward a healthier and more hopeful Mississippi.