MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Community leaders, Salvation Army officials and local residents gathered Thursday afternoon to celebrate the reopening and renovation of The Salvation Army’s newly renamed Eloise Hart Temple Client Choice Marketplace and a newly renovated chapel at the organization’s Meridian Corps location.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place Thursday at The Salvation Army on 25th Avenue and highlighted the organization’s continued efforts to expand services and provide a welcoming environment for families in need across East Central Mississippi.
The renovated Eloise Hart Temple Client Choice Marketplace allows individuals and families to select groceries and household essentials that best fit their needs, dietary restrictions and cultural preferences through a client-choice model rather than receiving prepackaged food boxes. Salvation Army leaders said the marketplace is designed to promote dignity, independence and compassion for those seeking assistance.
In addition to the updated marketplace, officials also unveiled a newly renovated chapel as part of the improvements completed at the Meridian facility.
The marketplace was officially renamed in honor of Eloise Hart Temple, a longtime philanthropist remembered for her dedication to serving children, families and neighbors throughout the Meridian community. Temple’s daughter, Barbara O’Neill, donated $101,000 toward the renovation efforts and was recognized during Thursday’s ceremony for helping continue her mother’s legacy of generosity.
During the event, O’Neill delivered a special tribute honoring her mother’s life and commitment to helping others. Event materials described Temple as a woman of faith and compassion who founded Camp DeSoto and later Camp Skyline Ranch, organizations focused on building confidence and leadership opportunities for young girls.
“Today, we celebrate a legacy of generosity that will help meet needs in Meridian for years to come,” the event program stated.
The ceremony featured opening remarks from Meridian Corps Administrator Sgt. Daniel Noland, comments from Advisory Board Chair Debby Delshad, a client testimony from Annie Rew and a closing prayer led by Captain Josh Hinson, General Secretary for The Salvation Army’s Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi Division.
Salvation Army leaders said the renovations reflect the organization’s ongoing mission to serve the community with dignity, hope and practical support while ensuring families have access to nutritious food, spiritual encouragement and essential resources in a welcoming environment.
