1st Ward pantry, Jones’ set give away

First Ward Living Grace Pantry will serve the community in the Bill and Sharri Jones 2022 Christmas Toy and Food Drive Give Away from 3-5 p.m. Dec. 11 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff football stadium parking lot.

Support for the fourth annual event came from Pine Bluff business owners Bill and Sharri Jones of Sissy’s Log Cabin, Arkansas Food Bank, Tyson Foods, and others, according to a news release from Debra Allen, executive director of First Ward Living Grace pantry.

Organizers expect to provide for more than 500 families in the drive-through event. Vehicles may have a maximum of two families each. The giveaway is first come first served.

Participants must not get out of their vehicles. Vehicles will enter University Drive and exit Oliver Road to L.A. “Prexy” Davis Drive.

Security will be enforced. Staff from the UAPB Police Department, Pine Bluff Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office will be in attendance.

Families looking forward to a meal and toys for their children should attend. A special appearance will be made by the First Ward Living Grace Pantry White Coats and a special guest will be flying in, according to the release.

For the volunteers, in appreciation of their service, Bill and Sharri Jones have hired Sweet Charliemays Café and Food Hut to provide a meal.