Community Heroes Bring Light and Hope to Greenwood During Hurricane Aftermath

Community Heroes Emerge in Greenwood Amidst Power Outages

The charming city of Greenwood has witnessed an extraordinary act of kindness and solidarity as two local heroes have taken it upon themselves to bring light and hope to their community during a dark time. The picturesque community of Mathews Mill Village has been grappling with power outages for nearly a week, thanks to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. As daylight temperatures soar up to 82°F and evenings drop to a chilly 60°F, daily routines have turned into daunting challenges for the residents.

Amidst this chaos, two inspiring women, Marilyn Bloodworth and Toya Davis, have proven that the power of unity can illuminate even the darkest of times. These dynamic women have transformed themselves into community crusaders, setting aside their own concerns to uplift their neighbors.

A Beacon of Hope

Marilyn Bloodworth and Toya Davis, both of whom have called Mathews Mill Village their home, have made it their mission to ensure that no one goes hungry or feels neglected during this challenging period. Marilyn Bloodworth, alongside her good friend Toya Davis, took immediate action by engaging with local church communities and generous businesses to gather food supplies and distribute them widely.

Marilyn, as a longstanding community advocate, expressed her determination to bring positive change to the area. **”I put changers because I’m one of these people. I get out and I do. I’m what you call a really true mover and shaker. I make it happen,”** Bloodworth passionately shared.

The duo hit the ground running, walking and driving through streets like Abbott Avenue, Kirksey Drive, and others, checking on residents and providing much-needed meals. They have embraced their role as community leaders, warming hearts with their chicken dinners and an unexpected gesture of kindness – delivering slices of pizza and snacks to those in need.

Neighborly Acts of Kindness

Among the residents witnessing this wave of benevolence is Rosa Fernandes, who has spent 22 years on West Kirksey Drive. Initially unacquainted with Bloodworth, Fernandes was touched when she opened her door to see Marilyn offering a comforting pizza. Rosa’s family, like many others, had to lean on their ingenuity to survive without the usual conveniences.

Rosa shared, **”Without any power, we had been had to improvise a little bit. We’re using the grill to try to heat up water for warm baths.. finding food through the churches, taking cold showers.”** She expressed her heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing how Marilyn and Toya’s empathy went beyond basic needs, strengthening the bonds in the community.

Adding to the efforts, kind-hearted citizens Marlin and Cindy Overhold, owners of The Pantry Shoppe, stepped forward to distribute 100 hot dog meals to eager residents.

Building a Future Together

Embodying the spirit of community, Marilyn and Toya aspire to create a neighborhood that thrives in unity. Marilyn has even initiated the “Mathews Mill Village Community Changers,” driving positive changes and fostering dialogues between the city, police, and residents. Their calling extends beyond the present, encouraging others to pitch in and collaboratively forge a lasting impact.

The warmth emanating from this duo has forged new connections in Greenwood, reinforcing the age-old adage that it sometimes takes just two kind-hearted individuals to unite a community.

As the power of two illuminates the path in Mathews Mill Village, let’s remember these everyday heroes who are teaching us the profound difference a simple act of kindness can make. If anyone wishes to assist or is in need of help, Marilyn Bloodworth and Toya Davis remain dedicated and accessible, eager to include all who want to be a part of this positive change.

With the sun now shining again through the clouds, it seems Greenwood residents are blessed not just with a beautiful climate, but with genuinely incredible neighbors too!