Lovitt Hines holds Community Day

Andrea Grady sits with some of the children who attended the Lovitt Hines 'Increasing The Peace' community day. Photo by Linda Whittington / Neuse News

The Lovitt Hines Recreation Center will continue to look out for those in need.

Friday was an example, as an “Increasing The Peace” community day was held. Besides music and food, citizens picked up school supplies as Monday inched closer for the first day of school in Lenoir County.

Brenda Gray, director of Lovitt Hines, said she wanted to put the Community Day together because of the glaring need in the city.

“We’re losing kids to the streets and I felt like this was something that needed to be done,” she said. “Throughout the year, we have after-school programs and try to do anything we can to have a safe haven for the kids. The community day is used to bring fellowship and help those in need, but we have our doors open year round.”

Programming director Andrea Grady said the community was instrumental in getting supplies for those less fortunate.

“There are parents and guardians who don’t have the means, and we were able to raise the supplies through our car washes (throughout the summer) and donations,” Grady said.

Several children who came to the community day enjoyed themselves, including Elexus Washington, 11, who liked the social aspect of Lovitt Hines.

“I like that we get to have a good time here,” Washington said.

Kayla Brown, 10, said Lovitt Hines gives her a multitude of options.

“We can go places (like parks and museums), I can hang out with my cousins and play with some of the other kids,” Brown said.

Tameya Hooker, 10, said she had fun at the event.

“I like mostly everything going on here,” Hooker said.

Xzoria Cannon, 10, shared similar sentiments.

"I like being able to play around with my friends,” Cannon said.

For those looking to make financial donations or give school supplies to Lovitt Hines, visit the rec center — located at 1100 E. King St. — or contact Gray at 252-468-1535.