HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – On Tuesday, the 42 Miss Hospitality contestants practiced one of the core values of the competition: Volunteerism.
“This is one of the most important things about Miss Hospitality, is that we’re giving back to the community,” said Winston County representative, Chloe Weeks.
Their first stop of the day was with Extra Table, where they filled bags with rice and beans to be sent out to food pantries all over the state.
“It’s just really great to know that you’re impacting not only your community and the people that you’re around, but people everywhere,” said Stone County representative, Katie Padgett.
The girls then stopped by the Lillie Burney Learning Center to work on the city’s newest mural while spending time with students.
The last stop for the “Miss Hospitality Give Back Day” was Forrest General Hospital to decorate and stuff goody bags for the FGH Cancer Center Patients.
“These girls really are ambassadors in their communities, and you know, today I encouraged them to continue to be those ambassadors,” said Forrest Health Vice President and State Board Member for Miss Hospitality, Millie Swan. “I think part of that is volunteerism. They can make a difference in their communities. They can give back.”
The contestants say they look forward to this week and serving their communities even after the competition.
“Volunteerism is so very important and something that I’ve always prioritized, especially being a lucky day scholar at USM,” said Padgett. “And also of course, being hospitable and welcoming, welcoming to everyone around you.
So, this has been such a special week so far, and I can’t wait to see how it goes.”
“I’m glad that all 42 of us girls get to have an impact here volunteering in Hattiesburg, and they’ve just encouraged us that even after this program is over, you still have a crown on your head for your county and you need to go back and represent your county and still serve there,” says Weeks.
The girls will take the stage for the official competition on Friday and Saturday night.
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