Trinity United Methodist offers temporary support as Southport investigates financial irregularities
By BC News Staff Writer
SOUTHPORT, NC — A Southport church is stepping forward to help families after the City of Southport abruptly suspended all Parks & Recreation programs, including its before and after school services, during an ongoing financial review.
The city announced the suspension through its official channels, citing a forensic accounting review that uncovered irregularities within the Parks & Recreation Department. Several employees were placed on paid administrative leave, and the matter was referred to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. While the city has not released further details, the shutdown immediately left local families without critical childcare coverage.
In response, Trinity United Methodist Church confirmed it is opening its doors to children affected by the suspension. Church leaders said they can temporarily accommodate roughly 30 families using existing children’s ministry space already equipped for youth programs. The church emphasized that it is not receiving payment for offering the temporary program, describing the effort as a community service rather than a contracted replacement.
Trinity operates from its main campus on East Nash Street and its children’s ministry annex on North Howe Street, where the temporary care will be housed.
“We saw families scrambling and wanted to make sure children had a safe place to go,” church leadership said in a public statement. The church noted that its support is intended as a stopgap measure while the city works through its investigation.
The city has not provided a timeline for reinstating its programs, and all Parks & Recreation activities, including youth programs, facility rentals, and community events remain paused. For many working parents, the sudden loss of before‑ and after‑school care has created significant scheduling and transportation challenges.
Community organizations are continuing to assess how they can assist until the city’s services resume. Trinity United Methodist Church encouraged other groups to consider stepping in as well, noting that the need extends beyond its current capacity.
Southport officials have stated they will release updates as the investigation progresses.
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