Sissonville, West Virginia is an unincorporated area, located twelve miles north of Charleston, geographically encompassing approximately twenty percent of Kanawha County. In October, 2010, construction began on a much needed community center. In June, 2012, the Sissonville Multipurpose Community Center(MCC), although not complete, became a reality. Working with Kanawha County Homeland Security
and Emergency Management and the American Red Cross, the MCC with its 100 KW generator became an emergency shelter. Following the derecho, it was home for nine days to area residents, provided over 2,600 meals and other services. In October of that year, following an early snowfall and power outage, it provided shelter and services for three days. Then in December, a gas pipeline explosion in the area necessitated yet another emergency shelter. The MCC provided three emergency shelters in a six month period during 2012. Fortunately it was not needed again until this past January during the water crisis. The Sissonville Emergency Shelter is on 24/7 standby and opens within a few minutes following notification from Kanawha County Emergency Services officials
Located adjacent to Aldersgate United Methodist Church, in the middle of the Sissonville Area and within one mile of the high, middle and the larger of the two grade schools, the MCC’s location is well above the flood plain and convenient to everyone in the area. While everyone knew it was needed, no one knew its demands. In addition to serving as a temporary emergency shelter, its many uses include home to Senior Services, Putnam on Aging Nutrition Center, Rhonda’s Closet, Sissonville Food Pantry and Clothing Corner, Lions Club, high and middle school sports banquets and community meetings. Youth in the area use it daily for basketball, volleyball and cheerleading. The Multipurpose Community Center’s services to the Sissonville Community continue to grow. It was not completed in its entirety until earlier this spring. One of two annual fund raisers for the facility is planned for Saturday, November 1, 4-7 P.M. A turkey dinner (eat-in and carry-out) will include turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce, rolls, and homemade pie. Adults-$10, children ages 5-10 $5, 4 and under eat free. Preparation starting on Friday includes, 50 turkey breasts, 40 gallons of green beans, 15 large pans of dressing, that includes 40 loaves of bread, 800 rolls, and 75 homemade pies. Realizing the WVU/TCU game is the same time, carry-outs will be convenient and fast. They will be located just inside the entrance to Laurel Meadows(never leave your car). During half time of the game there will be ample time to pick up dinner and get back home before the second half kick-off.
