Fundraiser benefits food pantry

 

 

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In a state grappling with the highest rates of food insecurity in the nation, Pine Bluff recently united to champion the First Ward Living Grace Pantry at its Third Annual Black Tie Fundraiser, bringing out several dignitaries, community leaders and elected officials.

First Ward Living Grace Pantry, established in February 2017 as a 501(c)(3) agency, is dedicated to nourishing families and fighting hunger across Pine Bluff, Jefferson County and surrounding communities.

The event, which included heartfelt tributes to guests of honor and Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr., highlighted critical issues facing the state, raising thousands of dollars toward the cause while celebrating those committed to service.

Isley Gooding, an anchor at KATV Channel 7 in Little Rock and the evening's master of ceremonies, expressed her excitement about being part of "such a good cause," emphasizing the critical issue of food insecurity in Arkansas.

"The USDA's economic research service reports that Arkansas again is number one in all the states with some of the highest food insecurity in the nation," Gooding stated. She elaborated on the four main problems contributing to this crisis: rising food insecurity, economic factors that make food unaffordable, the existence of food deserts in areas like Ward One in Pine Bluff due to grocery store closures, and a lack of transportation that hinders access to stores. Gooding thanked attendees for their presence, noting: "You being here tonight is helping that issue."

The event featured words of welcome from the executive director Deborah Allen. She acknowledged the immense effort put into organizing the event.

"I've been working on this for about nine months, me my team, and we are finally here," she said.

Allen also took a moment to introduce her board members, acknowledging past advice from Bill Jones, CEO of Sissy's Log Cabin, whose support has helped sustain the pantry. "You told me about six years ago, 'When you choose a board, choose someone that can help you.' It took me about five years to realize it, and I finally understand," she said.

The gathering, however, was to celebrate and honor Woods, with speakers highlighting his dedication to the community and exceptional character. Community members and leaders delivered heartfelt tributes at the event, emphasizing Woods' five-year impact in office.

Carlton Saffa, chief marketing officer of Saracen Casino, expressed deep admiration for his leadership.

"The best thing I can say about our sheriff is he's the kind of guy you hope your kid grows up to be," he said. "He's as good an ambassador as we could have for Jefferson County. I'm honored to have him as my friend, and I'm honored he's the one keeping us safe."

He also emphasized Woods' ability to make everyone comfortable and his role as a true gentleman. "There's an old saying about a true gentleman. A man who appears well in any company makes everyone comfortable. I think about Lafayette. He's the kind of guy you want to introduce people to," said Saffa.

The event also featured words of encouragement from Justice of the Peace Margarette Williams. She encouraged Woods to continue embodying the qualities of a strong leader and a person of character.

Williams extended her encouragement to everyone in attendance, urging them to be grateful for the visionary leadership of Allen and to practice active love through service.

Sharri and Bill Jones emphasized the deep connections within the community and the closeness between their family and Woods.

"There are people you can call on them anytime of the day or night about anything, and they will never tell you no," Sharri shared, expressing gratitude. She also extended appreciation to the sheriff's family, stating, "I thank you for sharing your family and your time with us, and we love you."

Bill Jones presented Woods with a cowboy hat and sunglasses. He spoke passionately about the sense of security and pride he feels living and serving in the community, largely attributing it to the presence and leadership of Woods.

Southeast Arkansas College recruitment director John Proctor delivered a powerful poem, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those being honored. His tribute emphasized the importance of action over mere brainstorming.

The spotlight then turned to Allen and the impactful work of her food pantry. Former Pine Bluff Police Chief Ivan Whitfield elaborated on what makes her and the pantry unique, highlighting Allen's selfless commitment.

"She runs a pantry, not for praise, not for attention, out of a commitment to be the home for the struggling people in our community," he said. He further explained that Allen's purpose is pure and her impact real, especially in a world where many talk about change but few act.

"While other people are making noise, she's feeding," he said. "What makes First Ward Pantry different is the one alone, Deborah Strickland Allen."

Pulaski County Sheriff Eric Higgins commended Woods for his commitment to service.

"It's so important that you have someone who is reaching out and helping people," he said. "You have a great sheriff here who cares about people."

Higgins expressed immense pride in Woods.

"I'm proud to call him a friend. I'm proud of the work he does day in and day out because I know it is not about holding the position. It's not about power. It's not about prestige. It's not about someone honoring him," Higgins said. "It is about service, it's about helping people, and that's what you see when you see Sheriff Woods. When you see what he does, you see his heart, and that's what this is about."

Higgins further acknowledged Woods' role as a mentor among sheriffs. "Thank you for being a mentor in the sheriff community because we all look up to you and we're proud of the work you do," he said.

The event also recognized other individuals for their significant contributions. Distribution partners recognized were Trinity Annex, Christ Redeemer Church, Kingdom Builders Outreach Church and Pine Hill Baptist Church.

Those presented with the Lafayette Woods Sr. Community Award included Lloyd Franklin Jr., Santrice Kearney, Judge Earnest Brown, Heat Magazine's Andre Braswell, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and Super 1/Brookshire's.

Woods then addressed the crowd.

"Under the steadfast leadership of Deborah Strickland Allen ... she has been a beacon of hope and source of solace for so many years in Jefferson County," he said.

Woods emphasized Allen's transformative vision, passion and commitment, noting that she "transformed this pantry from a small initiative into a private source of nourishment and care for so many families and individuals in need."

It was also highlighted that even when some doubted the pantry would last, Allen's "steadfast faith and resolve kept the mission alive," leading to "nearly eight years of continued service."

Woods was also lauded for his exceptional leadership and dedication. Pine Bluff Mayor Vivian Flowers recognized his academic and professional achievements.

"Lafayette Woods is a man of letters, academic letters," she said. "He was very proud of that, because he understands through experience and observation how important education is."

Flowers further praised Woods's commitment to his profession. "He not only does what's required, but he goes above and beyond in serving, and he doesn't just allow his name to be on a list ... he actually shows up and serves," she said.

Referring to Woods as "a protector of this county," it was revealed that he was the youngest serving sheriff in Arkansas at 37 when elected in 2018. His motto, "Service Above Self," which is enshrined in the nearly 200-year history of the sheriff's office, was particularly highlighted as a reflection of his dedication by Flowers.

"People talk often about our challenges, problems," said Flowers. "We don't need anybody to save us, because all of the dedication and the talent and the intelligence, the education, the grit, we have right here in this county, right here in this city."

 

 

 

Posted on 31 Jul 2025, 17:30 - Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News