A new phrase is being warmly shared across Dumas and Desha. “WE CARE: When Caring Counts… We Care About One Another.” The Legacy Center in West Dumas and program partners have been consistent. Whether it is COVID 19, wealth creation, mentoring, flooding or placing emphasis on City P.R.I.D.E., Positive Results in Dumas Everyday, progress is being made.
This weekend the nation celebrates the 156th Anniversary of Juneteenth. As per last year, a 1,000 Family Food Distribution is confirmed for this year. The distribution will take place on Friday June 18th at 1pm. The location will be announced via the online edition here, the CityPrideDumas Facebook page and the city of Dumas website. (see Juneteenth photos by Rick Wright).
During the past year, over $500,000 in food has been distributed from multiple sites in Dumas to provide citizens from Dumas to Dermott, etc., with food items valuing an average of $40 per family once to twice per month. With over 25 distributions, many families have saved hundreds of dollars in grocery expenses. These monies add up and help individuals save on rent, utilities and other expenses that would ordinarily go towards grocery and meal expenses.
“While food distribution is important and the celebration of Juneteenth with various entertainment is appealing, The College of Aspiring Artists which oversees the institutional work at The Legacy Center is looking how these moments advance placement of its campus in Dumas that has coursework and creative pathways for new and aspiring artists as well as 2-year and 4-year degree pathways. Jobs and workforce certifications is included. The coursework starts this fall in schools across the state. Fueling the hunger for food and the hunger for knowledge is the way forward. The challenge and risks involved in keeping this type of program active in Dumas is not easy. We have to go out and connect with program managers who so often do have their eyes on Dumas. We have inclement weather and other adverse conditions, COVID—19 is just one. Add the shortage of volunteers, this makes it even more challenging. The good news is that there is a crew that is consistent. Thanks to this group that comes on site, we get it done. Shout outs to The College of Aspiring Artists, ASC Property Management who have been the strongest in moving it forward. We have had support from the Dumas Economic Development Committee that helped. The leaders from The Legacy Center appreciates all help and donations,” stated Rev. Arthur L. Hunt, Jr., CEO, The College of Aspiring Artists.
Happening each week, The College of Aspiring Artists is presenting programs and insights to and about Dumas and Arkansas at 10am on Monday Mornings. Next week, June 21, will focus on education, wealth creation and how reparations will be a new development to pay attention to. To listen or view the program visit www.thecollegeofaspiringartists.education Special guests include Scott Hamilton, CEO Arkansas Urban League and Aubrey Mos, Financial Manager for Edward Jones. To volunteer, participate or to donate visit www.thelegacycenterinwestdumas.org
