Omega Psi Phi gives disaster assistance at distribution center

More than 40 brothers from the Omega Psi Phi fraternity took to the Selma community on Feb. 25 to provide disaster cleanup for four separate homes along Highway 14 and Union Street.

Members of the organization used chainsaws to cut and gather debris from falling structures damaged in the Jan. 12 tornado. With use of a dump truck, they removed debris from the properties. 

Work also began Saturday morning at their Distribution Center located at 536 Washington Street in Selma. They fired up the grill at 8 a.m. to begin preparing warm meals for individuals and families within the Selma community. Anyone receiving meals also had the opportunity to obtain necessary items such as hand sanitizer, paper towels, toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo and deodorant. The organization is also pushing to meet further needs such as clothing and shoes.  

After members of the fraternity gave a young man his warm meal, they were also able to give a very excited young man his first pair of new shoes. A seed of hope after so much loss within our community.

Fraternity President Calvin Marshall spoke strong and courageous when he stated, “We're here for the long hall. We’re going to still be here in the next five years meeting our community’s needs.” Marshall stated, “as long as I wear these letters on my chest, Selma will have our love and assistance.” 

The Omega Psi Phi Distribution Center is open for distribution on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.