Courtesy of Jackson State University
Alfred Street Baptist Church’s (ASBC) Mission Division will donate up to $1 million to Jackson State University (JSU) to help defray costs related to the ongoing water crisis in Jackson, MS, which began in late August 2022.
When the city of Jackson water treatment facility experienced low water pressure and issued a boil water notice, the lack of water pressure on campus prompted the University to delay its student move-in date. Classes began virtually and staff worked remotely until normal water pressure resumed, making it safe to return to normal operation. The University incurred significant expenses to rent portable showers and restroom facilities during the height of the crisis.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and philanthropy of Alfred Street Baptist Church, which has a long history of being an advocate for historically black colleges and universities,” said JSU President Thomas K. Hudson, J.D. “Reverend Wesley and the Alfred Street family are living examples of the saying, ‘give and it will be given to you.’ This $1 million donation will make a significant difference for our students and the solvency of our institution.”
Nearly $400,000 of the ASBC donation will be earmarked specifically to help replenish the JSU Emergency Gap Fund, which is being used to assist students with water crisis-related expenses. To date, more than 3,600 students have requested support. The remaining balance of the donation will assist with the University’s expenses related to renting portable showers and portable restrooms.
“ASBC is pleased to provide support to one of the nation’s largest HBCUs in a crisis that impacts students’ daily existence on campus,” said Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, ASBC pastor. “Effective learning cannot happen without ensuring that of the basic needs of these students are met.”
About Alfred Street Baptist Church
Established in 1803, Alfred Street Baptist Church is home to the oldest and largest African American congregations in Alexandria, Va. With nearly 10,000 members, the church serves as a prominent religious, educational and cultural organization in the Northern Virginia community. Alfred Street Baptist Church currently offers four online services, Saturdays, 6pm and Sundays at 8:00am, 10:00am and 2:00 pm. For more information, visit alfredstreet.org.
About Jackson State University
Jackson State University, founded in 1877, is a historically black, high research activity university located in Jackson, the capital city of Mississippi. Jackson State’s nurturing academic environment challenges individuals to change lives through teaching, research and service. Officially designated as Mississippi’s Urban University, Jackson State continues to enhance the state, nation and world through comprehensive economic development, healthcare, technological and educational initiatives. The only public university in metropolitan Jackson, Jackson State is located near downtown, with five satellite locations throughout the area.
