Shanell Williamson - Community Health Worker

09/20/2025

New Life Fellowship Church in Columbia hosted their annual Health and Resources Fair today, bringing the community together for education, support, and wellness. Several vendors were present to share valuable resources.

I had the opportunity to conduct blood pressure checks and glucose testing, while Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SEMRHI) was well represented by providing helpful information on our Social Services (HIV Awareness), Behavioral Health, Dental, and Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP). In addition, attendees enjoyed complimentary facials and relaxing chair back massages, making the day both informative and refreshing.

Health fairs like this are such an important way for individuals to connect with local agencies, learn about available services, and take steps toward healthier living.
Mississippi SHINE Project

09/12/2025

I attended G. W. Carver Elementary Annual Title I Parent Meeting and Open House tonight. Parents met with teachers to review their children’s progress reports, test scores, and learn about classroom expectations and school resources. I also had the opportunity to speak with parents about the 5210 Program, healthy eating habits, and the importance of encouraging children to eat more fruits and vegetables for their overall health. In addition, Save the Children distributed educational games for the students to take home.
Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

09/08/2025

Yesterday, The Way There, LLC “Together WeRise” Team & the Mississippi SHINE Project celebrated Grandparent’s Day at Jefferson Davis Extended Care Facility. We had a wonderful time with the residents, playing Bingo and tennis ball Tic Tac Toe, & awarding fun prizes like back scratchers/shoe horns, therapy balls, snacks, candy, journals, and water bottles.💜

We also enjoyed action song movement therapy, painted nails, and gifted 56 resident a hygiene kit along with a pair of no-skid or diabetic socks. To further support the facility, we donated 7 extension shoe horns and sock assistance devices.

What a joyful and fulfilling day—full of smiles, laughter, and love! 😍🙏🏽
Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

09/06/2025

Circuit Broadcasting System in Hattiesburg celebrated its 56-year station anniversary at Town Square Park with its radio stations 92.1, 93.1, and 1580 AM. 🎉
The community gathered for a wonderful event filled with live music performances, delicious food vendors, and local businesses showcasing their services.

Several vendors were present, including Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc., Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP),and Mississippi SHINE Project who provided free health screenings to attendees. The event was well-organized, engaging, and enjoyable, celebrating both community spirit and the legacy of Circuit Broadcasting System. 🎉📻✨

09/05/2025

I am A Living Testimony‼️On 3/18/2025, I was diagnosed with..
* Subarachnoid hemorrhage - aneurysm rupture bleed
* Obstructive hydrocephalus - cerebral spinal fluid block by vessels in brain
* Cerebral vasospasm - blood cannot properly circulate in brain causing stroke symptoms
🙌🏽 🙏🏽 ❤️

Today, September 1st, marks the start of Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month, a critical moment to take action against a silent killer that affects millions. The Brain Aneurysm Foundation is the leading foundation funding vital research, supporting survivors, and spreading life-saving awareness. This September, join us. Learn the signs. Share the stories. Together, we can stop brain aneurysms before they strike.

09/05/2025

We had an amazing time today at the 3rd Annual Boots on the Ground by Project GAP Pop-Up Weekend featuring "SPREAD the LOVE" Charity Day and Day-in-the Park.⭐️
The event was filled with community resources, caring vendors, and a spirit of giving. Project G.A.P. provided hot meals, clothing, and non-perishable food items to those in need.💙
Our team — Mississippi SHINE Project & Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SEMRHI) — was proud to contribute by offering free health screenings, healthy snacks, and bottled water to support overall wellness.💚💧Together, we are stronger when we serve! ✨

08/27/2025

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08/25/2025

Mississippi SHINE Project Celebrates National Community Health Worker Week

This week, we proudly recognize and celebrate our dedicated Community Health Workers (CHWs), who work tirelessly to ensure residents receive the care and services they need to live healthy lives.

At the Mississippi SHINE Project, we are committed to strengthening our communities and improving the health of residents across the 21 rural counties we serve.

Thank you to all our CHWs for your unwavering dedication and impact!

08/21/2025

Today, I attended the Smith County MSU Extension Office and the Smith County Mississippi Homemaker Volunteer Council (MHV) Annual Senior Citizens Day. Over 125 seniors joined in this fun luau-style event! Hosted by the Smith County Homemakers, the day offered opportunities to connect, learn about community resources, enjoy gospel music, and share in fellowship. A variety of vendors were present to provide valuable information and support, and I had the opportunity to offer blood pressure checks for attendees. The keynote speaker, Krista Sullivan, Medicare Coordinator with MS Care of Raleigh, did an excellent job addressing the audience on Medicare and Medicaid.

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

08/20/2025

Coach Damionh Jones and the Actively Prime Seniors getting their workout in!💪🏽Now, what’s your excuse⁉️

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

08/20/2025

Today was AWESOME!!! I attended the Actively Prime Senior Wellness session and birthday workout class with Coach Damionh Jones. There were 170 participants who truly enjoyed getting their workout in! Coach DJ also had vendors on site providing valuable information, and I conducted health screenings.

It was truly inspiring to watch seniors arrive—some with walking canes and others with rolling scooters—to participate in the Actively Prime workout class, held every Tuesday and Thursday at the C.E. Roy Center in Hattiesburg. One of the oldest and most remarkable participants is 1️⃣0️⃣3️⃣ years old‼️💪🎉

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.