Texarkana, Texas – On Thursday, the downtown core came alive with the fifth annual Resource Day, a community‑driven effort organized by the Texarkana Homeless Coalition. More than 20 local vendors and nonprofit agencies gathered at Mission Texarkana to provide free clothing, undergarments, hygiene products and essential information to individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Local nonprofits lead the outreach
Melissa Reddin, co‑founder of the nonprofit Sterling House, highlighted the event’s growing impact. “We want people to know they are not alone and to give them one top place for all the resources, because it’s really hard for them to get access to this,” Reddin said, noting that this was Sterling House’s third year participating in Resource Day.
Community members echoed the sentiment. Delshon Tyous described the gathering as “very important to our community,” adding that the event fostered “overall positivity” and encouraged broader community involvement.
Vendors and agencies provide a wide range of assistance
Attendees received practical items such as shirts, socks, underwear and personal care supplies. In addition, representatives from health clinics, job‑training programs, housing agencies and food‑bank partners staffed tables to explain how residents can access longer‑term support services.
Lexxie Collins of Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit. “To be part of Resource Day means we’re making a healthier living and well‑being community,” Collins said. “I hope the attendees take away the resources. You see tables, but I hope they remember the names, because we are here and want to help and pour into those who need it.”
Faith‑based groups and local businesses join the effort
Several faith‑based organizations set up booths, reinforcing the Christian principle of caring for the vulnerable. Local businesses donated inventory and volunteered time, demonstrating the strong partnership between commerce and charity that sustains Texarkana’s social safety net.
The event’s success reflects a broader trend of community‑led initiatives that address homelessness without relying on expansive government programs. By mobilizing volunteers, churches, and small enterprises, Texarkana residents are embodying the values of personal responsibility, family support, and faith‑driven service.
Looking ahead
Organizers plan to expand Resource Day next year, aiming to include additional health screenings and job‑placement counseling. The coalition hopes that the growing visibility of the event will inspire more families to seek assistance and more donors to contribute resources.
For those who missed Thursday’s gathering, the Texarkana Homeless Coalition encourages volunteers to sign up for future events and invites anyone in need of assistance to contact Mission Texarkana directly.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
