Gaston County Hope Fest on the horizon

Gaston County’s annual Hope Fest is happening 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at First United Methodist Church in Gastonia 190 E. Franklin Blvd.

According to a press release from the county, the event will provide free resources and services to community members who are experiencing homelessness.

Services include:

• Access to a shower and laundry trailer
• Free haircuts
• Free meals
• Free supplies, and more

The release said Gaston County ACCESS is providing free transportation by bus with pick-up and drop-off in several locations around the county including Franklin Square, North New Hope Road, East Baptist Church, and others.

Volunteers

The Hope Fest planning committee is looking for volunteers, and anyone in the community can sign up as a volunteer , according to the release.

The committee is also accepting donations of durable backpacks, hygiene kits, pet food, and other highly requested items, it said.

The complete list of items is available on the Amazon Wish List and donations will be accepted through Friday, Sept. 6, at the United Way of Gaston County.

United Way is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday.

Donations can also be dropped off at any of the Gaston County Public Library locations.

For more information about Hope Fest, residents can call 704-862-7641 or email css@gastongov.com.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Gaston County Hope Fest on the horizon