🌱 Casa Grande Apartments Demolished + Youth Summer Meal Program

Hello, everybody. It's me, Nicole Fallon-Peek, your host of the Jackson Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with all the most important things happening in our community today.

But first, today's weather:

Warmer with a heavy t-storm. High: 91 Low: 73.

From our sponsor:

Today’s Jackson Patch newsletter is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. T-Mobile has invested billions to light up their best network ever, covering 99% of people in America with LTE, which helps to keep communities like ours informed and connected. We thank T-Mobile for their support and for making today’s Jackson Patch newsletter possible.

Here are the top three stories today in Jackson:

1. On Tuesday, crews began demolition of the Casa Grande apartment complex in Jackson. Since the complex was vacated in 2014, officials say the site has become a haven for illegal dumping, fires, and vagrants. The demolition project is estimated to cost taxpayers around $200,000. (WJTV)
2. Multiple law enforcement officials have issued statements about the need for mental health resources in the Jackson metro area. The statements come on the heels of last week's announcement that St. Dominic in Jackson will close its Behavioral Health Services unit. According to Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones, the lack of funding for mental health services will lead struggling individuals to end up in jail rather than receiving needed treatment. (Clarion Ledger)
3. A local church has launched a program to help feed kids under 18 this summer. The Summer Feeding Program at New Vineyard Church is set to begin this week and will ensure children in need have access to breakfast and lunch Monday-Friday all summer long. Meal pickups will be available at multiple locations around Jackson, including New Vineyard Church, Blossom Apartments, and Windsor Park Apartments. Visit the link to view the full list of pickup sites. (WJTV)

Interested in reaching our local readers with targeted messaging that drives traffic to your business? I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. If that's you, then I invite you to learn more and secure your spot now.

Today in Jackson:

Wednesday, June 14

• Bingo At Dr. Margaret Walker Alexander Library (10:15 AM)
• Summer Jam June At Christ United Methodist Church (5:30 PM)

In partnership with T-Mobile:

Do you know a Jackson dad whose texts make you smile? This Father’s Day, celebrate him with a shoutout on Patch. Just fill out this simple form and we’ll do the rest!

From my notebook:

• Heads up, house hunters! Here are the latest homes to hit the market in the Jackson area, including a 1,553 sq. ft., three-bedroom, two-bathroom home on N Crossings for $175,000. (Jackson Patch)
• Jackson State University has announced panelists for the Phillis Wheatley Poetry Festival this fall. Click here to register for the event, which begins Wednesday, Nov. 1. (Jackson State University via Facebook)
• The seventh annual Juneteenth on Farish Festival is happening this Saturday, Jun. 17, on historic Farish Street. Stop by between 5:00-10:00 p.m. to enjoy vendors, music, food, and family. (AllEvents)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday off right. I'll see you soon!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.