Marengo

This project enabled the Demopolis Public Library to buy educational resources that helped us meet the needs of children, teens and adults in our community. We used funds to purchase test preparations books for the GED, ACT, GRE, and ASVAB Military Exam. We also purchased a set of DVD’s that help students with study skills and test taking skills. We purchased books that helped our pre-school and school aged children develop early literacy skills. We were able to purchase some non-fiction common core books for children in grades K-8. Having access to and reading non fiction books helps students develop their background knowledge, which accounts for as much as 33% in student achievement. We also purchased eBooks and digital audiobooks for children and adults.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness states that one in five Americans suffer from mental illness.  As research, headlines, and personal testimonies reflect the devastation that mental health conditions can create, rural America is at an even greater risk of limited access to mental health resources.  Therefore, the “Pathways to Mental Health” program serves as a source of refuge to rural citizens who otherwise would not have access to trained mental health counselors. “Pathways” focuses on mental health awareness, healthy mental lifestyles, and stigma removal.   The program provides education tailored for children and adults, age 5 and up, and it gives each group an opportunity to dispel some of the myths associated with mental health conditions and health awareness.  “Pathways” creates a judgment free, open dialogue environment in our communities and in our schools that encourages mental health awareness discussions.  Moreover, it is an opportunity to conduct research and to collect data in the form of forums, surveys, and storytelling in an effort to provide resources to meet existing and future needs.

Black Belt Mobile Pantries operate through Selma Area Food Bank. We collect and distribute on average around 12,000 lbs of food per mobile pantry. This poundage includes but is not limited to, fresh meat, produce and canned good items. We distribute the products in the four counties we service which are: Dallas, Perry, Marengo and Wilcox. All of the food we distribute through Mobile Pantries are completely free of charge for the individuals participating and Selma Area Food Bank incurs all charges for the product.

 

 

ChiLLy Fest, our Christmas event, is Lindens largest event. It includes a free concert, carnival, vendors, chili cook off, parade, and fireworks.