As many people know, the City partnered with Project NOW this past weekend to host an emergency shelter at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center as temperatures dipped below zero. I’d like to start off by reading a statement from Jerry Jones, executive director of the King Center.

“This past weekend, 55 individuals found safe shelter at the MLK site, made possible through the strong collaboration of Project NOW, Christian Care and The Third Place. The coordinated effort ran exceptionally smooth, reflecting the dedication, preparation and teamwork of all partners involved. Volunteers ensured that guests were welcomed with dignity, warmth and the resources they needed throughout their stay.

"The only significant challenge we encountered was a positive one: finding adequate space to store the overwhelming volume of donations contributed by a deeply compassionate and generous community. The outpouring of food, supplies and essentials was a powerful testament to the community’s commitment to supporting our most vulnerable neighbors, underscoring both the success of the operation and the strength of our collective care. We are proud and humbled by the generosity of our community and the care they have for those in dire need.”

Holiday Hours

City Hall and Rock Island public libraries will be closed Christmas Eve, December 24^th, Christmas Day, December 25^th and New Year’s Day, January 1^st. The library will also be closed New Year’s Eve, December 31^st.