Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Gospel Tabernacle Church and Rural Health Medical Program teamed with several organizations to hold a food giveaway and COVID-19 drive-through testing Tuesday at the former Cedar Park Elementary School building.

Ward 4 Selma City Councilwoman Lesia James, Selma City Schools, Selma Housing Authority, Selma-Dallas County Coronavirus Task Force, Fourth Judicial Circuit Court of Alabama|Judge Marvin Wiggins all were part of the partnership.

Tabernacle of Praise Church, Greater Kingdom Citadel and Edgewood Elementary School were the co-sponsors.

Rural Health CFO Keshee Dozier-Smith said she’s honored her company serves the community.

“We’re proud of our role being Selma’s health provider,” Smith said.

Wiggins, who presides over Dallas, Wilcox, Hale, Bibb and Perry Counties, said the testing provides more opportunities for residents.

“Instead of people going to get tested, we’re bringing the testing to them, there are no excuses,” Wiggins said. “We can’t afford to wait on the vaccine. I’m proud to be associated with this.”

James said she was proud to participate both as a councilwoman and employee at Selma High School.

“I think the need is great, I want people to be safe and get tested,” James said. “Being tested save someone’s life and your life.”

Gospel Tabernacle Pastor John E. Grayson, who led the food giveaway with chicken, sausage, milk and assorted fruits, said it’s all about serving the community.

“I think it’s wonderful,” Grayson said. “Getting tested and giving away food is important. Gospel Tabernacle is very happy to be a partner.”