This year, Brookhaven Outreach Ministries will serve its largest number of families yet through its Christmas Giveaway happening today. BOM President Rev. Jerry Durr addressed the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors in its meeting Monday about the drive.

“This year is the most we’ve had, it’s 538 families. That includes 254 children and 284 senior citizens and middle-aged people who [have] a crisis in the house,” Durr said.

BOM is asking volunteers to join church groups including Faith Presbyterian starting at 12:30 p.m. for the giveaway that will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. today at the distribution center at 101 E. Court St. Faith Presbyterian has provided turkey vouchers for each family.

“We want to reach the whole gamut of needs of the family: physical, spiritual, social,” Durr said. “We just appreciate all y’all do, the funds that you allocate to us every year. And if you want come over and see what we’re doing, we welcome you … and we just want to say thank y’all so much.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Bro. Jerry for 20-something years and watching what he does for the community, his tireless effort,” said Chancery Clerk Tillmon Bishop. “We appreciate what you do for the community.”

For more information about how to get involved or donate to Brookhaven Outreach Ministries, call 601-833-1350.

In other business:

Board members and other officials recognized the last meeting for outgoing supervisors District 2 Supervisor Jimmy Diamond and District 5 Supervisor Dudley Nations. The incoming officials, District 2 Supervisor Bobby J. Watts and District 5 Supervisor Doug Falvey, will be informally sworn in Wednesday between 12 and 1 p.m. during the county’s Christmas lunch. Newly elected officials will be formally sworn in on Jan. 4 at 2 p.m. at the Brookhaven-Lincoln County Government Complex.

Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Rushing requested budgeted instructive training for Andrew Montgomery, which the board approved. Rushing also addressed the board on the jail food service and its recent 2 percent cost increase. Rushing requested the board approve to amend this budget item, adding that the rate hasn’t changed in three years. He said the change is minimal, amounting to maybe a 2-cent increase per meal.

The board also moved to:

• Approve tax exemptions for Rex Lumber, Delphi Packard Electric and Denbury Resources.

• Refund two solid waste accounts at the cost of $60 and $14.

The board entered into executive session for the purpose of discussing possible litigation. No action was taken after the session.