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The Winston Williams Shelter for the Homeless is still taking financial donations and needs volunteers.

Gospel Tabernacle Pastor John E. Grayson, who runs the shelter, provided a list of needed items: a washer and dryer, disinfectant supplies, cleaning supplies, coffee, assorted snacks, dryer sheets, bleach, detergent, cups and spoons. The center is open daily from 7 p.m. until 7 a.m.

According to Grayson, volunteers are what is needed most. 

“The shelter needs your prayers,  financial support and most of all, volunteers,” Grayson said “Don’t be uneasy in helping out. Most of our homeless community are gentle and very appreciative when they walk in the door. You would be amazed that a hot bowl of soup and a cup of coffee is like receiving a million dollars to these individuals. It will bless you so much to serve those less fortunate.”

Dallas County Emergency Management Agency Director Toya Crusoe, who posted the shelter’s needs list on social media, praised Grayson for his leadership.

“Pastor Grayson has kindly offered his premises to accommodate the homeless, but he needs support from the community,” Crusoe said. 

Grayson said the homeless shelter belongs to Selma and Dallas County, not Gospel Tabernacle.

“Please know that the Winston Williams Shelter for the Homeless is not a Gospel Tabernacle church shelter,” Grayson said. “It’s a community shelter and belong to the people of Selma. Many of you have sent messages thanking me for leading this effort. 

“First, it’s not me alone. We have a fantastic board and another group that’s part of the vision team, they are the ones to make it happen. Secondly, I don’t deserve any special praise because it’s the right thing to do and when you do right, you don’t deserve no special thanks. This is our city! She will be what we make it.”

Earlier this month, area organizations including Cougar Oil, Snow’s Cleaning Service and KFC Selma, raised over $12,000 in one week for the shelter.

Individuals looking to donate or volunteer can contact Grayson at  334-431-5051. People also wanting to donate can go to this link: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/XFH40CUFN52L?fbclid=IwAR1qyoDf33klrsLokYytl4O0ES6679Y7HPKljvYTulq6rjuxFXyf56-dSn8