Relief organizations weather “water crisis” (UPDATE)

Relief organizations are continuing to operate amid the ongoing “water crisis” in the Capitol City.

The Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross is helping crews distribute Kroger water to those in need. They will also be feeding volunteers at Metrocenter Mall today from noon until 1 p.m.

Spokesperson Tamica Smith-Jeuitt told the MBJ this morning that the Jackson headquarters is open for business and that staff members are handling cases in spite of the continued loss of water pressure in the building.

Jo Gibbons, Red Cross Director of Preparedness and Response, is serving as an adviser  to the Mayor’s Office as city officials continue to monitor the emergency.

Frank Spencer, executive director of Stewpot Ministries, said that the Jackson network of homeless shelters is in need of water. “We have no water in storage at our women and children’s shelters,” he said. “There was none this morning.” Spencer added that they are serving drinking water at a new shelter located on Amite Street.

Portable restrooms have been set up at the mission office. “Our biggest crisis today is flushing toilets,” Spencer said.

Those who wish to make donations may bring water to Stewpot’s main location at 1100 W. Capitol Street in Jackson or call (601) 357-2759.

Water is also needed at Gateway Rescue Mission located at 328 S. Gallatin Street. Executive director Rex Baker said that volunteers at the homeless shelter had purchased several pallets of water early Tuesday morning for use in the kitchen. “Water pressure was back up this morning at our facility,” he said. “We’ll probably be okay in a few days.”