Serving Through the Cold: Omega Psi Phi Brings Warmth to Jackson, Mississippi
During one of the coldest weeks of the year, members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. stepped up to support their community in Jackson, Mississippi. On January 22, 2025, the Beta Alpha and Upsilon Epsilon Chapters partnered with Greater Mount Calvary M.B. Church at the Stewpot, where brothers served over 160 warm meals to individuals facing difficult times. The lunch provided not only nourishment but also a reminder of compassion during freezing temperatures that dipped below 26 degrees. Special recognition is extended to Bro. Lee A. Benard and Bro. Howard Derrick of the Upsilon Epsilon Chapter for their leadership in organizing this meaningful effort. Their dedication exemplifies the impact of collaboration and fraternity service.
Beyond serving meals, the Beta Alpha and Upsilon Epsilon Chapters turned their focus to those struggling to stay warm amidst the Arctic blast gripping the region. Brothers distributed 42 sleeping bags each to the Billy Brumfield Men’s Shelter and the Stewpot Opportunity Center, along with socks, gloves, and other essentials to Champions Gym. This hands-on outreach addressed urgent needs as shelters faced a rising demand for support, with some operating near capacity. With assistance from Southwest Airlines, the fraternity also provided snacks and supplies, ensuring that no one braved the freezing nights without some form of comfort or care. Community partners like Rhonda Scott of Southwest Airlines emphasized the importance of extending their presence beyond corporate walls to directly serve those most affected.
This coordinated effort underscores the powerful role that fraternity and community partnerships can play in times of crisis. As temperatures dropped to a chilling 17 degrees, the combined work of Omega Psi Phi, shelters like Champions Gym, and organizations such as Shower Power provided safe havens for the city’s most vulnerable residents. Mary Ann Kirby, director of operations for Shower Power, reflected on the challenge of accommodating a growing need while maintaining a sense of community within their shelter. Through shared dedication and thoughtful action, the brothers of Beta Alpha, Upsilon Epsilon, and their partners offered hope, warmth, and solidarity to Jackson residents during a time when it was needed most.
