Last week, the Rev. Darryl Calloway, pastor of Whatley Street First Baptist Church, called on the community to donate water to be delivered to approximately 200 residents of rural Wilcox County who have no running water.

The response, he said, was overwhelming.

“We had between 400 and 500 cases of water,” Calloway said. “Quite a few people came out, and they really did an awesome job.”

Saturday afternoon, church members distributed water to several families, and to a rec center in Wilcox County where water is being distributed.

“When we put water on the porch, and the little children came out to get it, it was like Christmas toys were being put on the porch,” Callaway said. “The parents immediately said, ‘Lord, we thank you.’ It was just awesome. Mesmerizing.”

And the group was so touched, they want to keep helping.

“The guys who went with me, it touched them so much they want to do it again,” he said. “There is a serious need over there. This story has not been sensationalized.”

Residents of the Lamison area of Wilcox County have repeatedly asked the Wilcox County Commission to help secure a grant to provide a public water system to their community. However, the commission is financially strapped and has poor credit. To date, commissioners have split on a move to create a water authority which could potentially secure grant funding. It also has rejected offers from the West Dallas County water system and the Town of Pine Hill.

Members of Whatley Street FBC will collect water again on Fri., Aug. 19, at the church, from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. Church members will deliver the water to Wilcox County on Sat., Aug. 20.

Calloway expressed appreciation to all who helped with the drive.

“We appreciate everyone who participated, monetarily, by giving water, or by supporting us with prayers,’ he said. “It was very much appreciated.”