• Ashley Sigrest

Local Leaders and The Salvation Army Join Forces to Provide Aid During Crisis

(Morgan City, Louisiana-September 15, 2024) In the heart of Morgan City, Louisiana, a remarkable display of unity and compassion is unfolding in the wake of Hurricane Francine. Julia “Blaze” Johnson and Marchelle B. Hoskins, both contenders for a city council seat, have put aside political aspirations to focus on an even greater mission: serving their community, affectionately known as Across The Tracks or Old Brashear.

“It’s not politics, it’s love,” declared Johnson, highlighting a shared commitment with her opponent that transcends typical campaign concerns. In the aftermath of the hurricane, which brought over 20 inches of rain and severe flooding to the area, both candidates have shifted their focus from winning votes to addressing the immediate needs of their neighbors.

Hoskins leveraged her extensive local network to connect with The Salvation Army’s mobile feeding teams. She guided them to the hardest-hit neighborhoods, ensuring that critical aid reached those in need. Recognizing the dire situation faced by many residents—who were left without transportation due to flood damage—Hoskins and Johnson didn’t just guide the relief efforts; they rolled up their sleeves and volunteered alongside The Salvation Army team.

“With the extent of the damage and the lack of transportation, many people can't access the help they need,” Hoskins explained. “It’s a blessing that The Salvation Army can bring food directly to their neighborhoods, allowing families to stay fed and safe.”

For both candidates, the focus remains on community support rather than political competition. Hoskins echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the core values that guide her and Johnson. “Our community has always been about helping each other. This isn’t about politics; it’s about doing what’s best for our neighbors. If we don’t help one another, we’re never going to grow.”

Their collaborative spirit aligns seamlessly with The Salvation Army’s mission, embodied in their rallying cry to “Love Beyond.” This principle goes beyond simply addressing immediate needs; it represents a broader commitment to showing love and care in all circumstances, especially in times of disaster.

As Morgan City begins to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Francine, Johnson and Hoskins’ joint efforts stand as a powerful reminder of the impact of community solidarity. Their actions embody the message that in the face of adversity, true leadership is demonstrated through service, empathy, and unity.

The Salvation Army’s dedication to meeting the needs of the most vulnerable during disasters mirrors the spirit of collaboration shown by these city council hopefuls. Together, they are working to ensure that no one is left behind and that their community emerges stronger from this challenging time.