By Craig Anderson

SMYRNA — Rental assistance for a family who lost a loved one in a vehicle crash.

Clothing and more for another without supplies after a residential fire.

Three scholarships for college-bound Smyrna High School seniors, totaling $1,600.

The Smyrna Center for Diversity is focused on helping all sorts of people in all sorts of ways.

Co-founded by Charlotte Middleton and Robert Johnson in July 2022, the nonprofit is dedicated to assisting those in need whenever it can.

According to the organization’s pamphlet, “With the changing tides of the economy, we have found that there is a need to connect people with communication, education, and resources. As the town grows, so do the needs, and adding additional support will undoubtedly benefit the community at large.”

For example, Ms. Middleton said Wednesday, “we look at issues affecting the elderly, where they need assistance with, say, electric bills where their power is shut off.”

Mr. Johnson is the husband of Ms. Middleton, as well as Smyrna’s mayor.

“We thought it was good to have a group that centralizes things and can tell people where they can go all at one time,” he said. “If they come here and say, ‘We need this, and we need that,’ we can point them in the right direction because not everyone knows how to use the internet or read the newspaper. We thought we could start this to create a database of info that can really reach people.”

Some other aims, the organizers said, are to minimize gaps in food distribution, create partnerships with other organizations to support Smyrna projects and provide mental health services.

The agency has roughly 20 members, predominately from local businesses, Ms. Middleton said. And more members are welcome.

The pamphlet also quoted some of those served by the center, including:

• “Did not know anyone in this community and I am now out of the house and actively involved.”
• “It’s nice to have a group that I can join and feel like I am helping others.”
• “We really need an organization like this one.”

Ms. Middleton serves as chair, Daphne Walker is vice chair, and Mr. Johnson is treasurer. A secretary is to be announced.

The Smyrna Center for Diversity meets the second Friday of each month at Sweets & Treats Restaurant and Bar on Main in the downtown area.

Information is available on its Facebook page or by emailing smyrnadiversitycenter44@aol.com or calling 609-502-2399.