Ward 1 Alderman TJ Mayfield Launches DREAM Community Champions Program with Vicksburg Police, Fire Departments

Vicksburg, Miss. (VDN) — Ward 1 Alderman TJ Mayfield is proud to announce the launch of the DREAM Community Champions program with the Vicksburg Police Department and Vicksburg Fire Department. This initiative will provide essential resources, including meals, books, and toiletries, to school-aged kids from July 11 through August 1, 2025.

The DREAM Community Champions initiative is designed to support individuals and families across Vicksburg by addressing basic needs and promoting literacy and well-being. The partnership will bring together local organizations, volunteers, and law enforcement officers to distribute these resources to strengthen community relationships and improve residents’ quality of life.

“We are excited to collaborate with the Vicksburg Police Department on this important initiative,” said Alderman TJ Mayfield. “By working together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of our residents, ensuring they have access to essential items and educational materials. Several of the feeding programs in the community will end either late June or early July, and we would like to provide resources for the entirety of the summer break.”

Through this partnership, designated distribution locations will be set up throughout Ward 1, where families can receive free meals, books for all ages, and necessary toiletries daily. Community members are encouraged to participate and support the initiative by volunteering or donating items.

“We are committed to fostering a positive relationship between law enforcement and the community,” said Penny Jones, Chief of the Vicksburg Police Department. “This program is an opportunity to show that we care, not just about safety, but about the well-being of every resident.”

Donation requests for toiletries include soap, lotion, toothpaste, hairbrushes, combs, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, underwear, and socks starting on May 5th at the Vicksburg Police Department, Vicksburg-Warren Youth Development Center, and the Ward 1 Alderman’s Office.

Food donations include bread, hot dogs, condiments, foil, water, sliced turkey, sliced ham, chips, fruit, and granola bars will be collected July 1st to ensure freshness of goods. All financial contributions must be made to the United Way of West Central Mississippi.

With gratitude,

Alderman Thomas “TJ” Mayfield