Video: Columbus Greater Good Does Good

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) — For about a year now the Columbus has had in place a non-funded program that’s helping low-income residents with life’s basic necessities, and they are doing it for the “Greater Good.” That’s the name of the program where vulnerable citizens meet the first and third week of every month for three days.

Regular classes at the Columbus Community Outreach Center seem to be helping the disadvantaged by giving valuable information and resources they will need for the rest of their lives.

“For this group they’re primarily looking for housing. They are living with other people, sleeping on the floor, sleeping on couches in overcrowded homes. So all of them are looking for housing assistance,” Glenda Buckhaulter with the Community Outreach Center said.

One day of a three day week helps in sharpening up on educational information and job opportunities that includes how to dress for a successful interview.

During another session, talking points center around money.

“Because money is the major problem — if you don’t have money there is not very much you’ll be able to do. So, they need money and they need to know how to handle the money once they get the money,” Buckhaulter said.

With most students in the program, there is not much cash in hand, even though some may have a job bringing home little pay.

“Most of them are not making even $1,000 a month. I would probably go less than that. Probably $500. They are operating with less than $500 a month,” Buckhaulter said.

Buckhaulter seems somewhat encouraged, when she gets favorable news and good results from a woman in the program.

“She was able to get a job, she has bought a car. Now she has an apartment and she has been doing this for about six or seven months now. So right out the gate, I was able to get people in and start helping them. And this young lady is doing well,” said Buckhaulter.

The non-funded city program partners with other community agencies. To find out more information or to make a donation to the program email gbuckhaulter@columbusms.org or call 662-244-3525.

Categories: Local News

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