On April 23rd, Pearl River County hosted a resource fair in observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, featuring participation from various local entities. The event aimed to provide information and support to the public, with organizations such as the Exodus Project 21, Pearl River County Hospital and Nursing Home, CSpire, Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, Mississippi Power, and the Picayune Police Department setting up booths.

Over 50 participants attended the fair, including food prepared by the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department.

Christy Goss, the PRC Economic Development District Project Manager, acknowledged the grant that funded the event, noting the competitive nature of securing such funding. Out of 223 applicants, only 105 were funded. Goss highlighted her increased awareness of the various types of crimes and their impacts on individuals through the process of organizing the fair.

Goss emphasized the fair’s aim to provide resources, foster community cohesion, and provide networking opportunities. She stressed the importance of residents interacting with vendors and law enforcement to bridge gaps and demonstrate law enforcement’s approachability.