City of Hattiesburg to hold candlelight vigil

|This is a press release from the City of Hattiesburg

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The City of Hattiesburg and the Pine Belt Coalition on Homelessness invite the community to join them in remembering homeless individuals who died this year. A candlelight vigil to commemorate National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 5:15 p.m., at City Hall Civic Center Plaza (water fountain area).

There’s a significant reason behind the date chosen to bring attention to the plight of the homeless; December 21 is the first day of winter and traditionally the coldest day of the year.

“It’s very easy to become consumed with our own problems, and while they might prove overwhelming at times, a lot of us have a place to call home, clean clothes on our backs, and food to eat. Some of the members of our community can’t say the same,” said Mayor Johnny DuPree.

“It is my hope that people will pause and attend the vigil. The ceremony is a moment where we can reflect on those who have passed and renew our commitment towards helping a person or family within the community who need assistance getting back on their feet,” DuPree said.

At the conclusion of the vigil, the Coalition will distribute toiletries. For more information on how you can help, please call 601.554.1005.