Voting is now underway in AC Services of Minden’s Operation Blessing 2026 campaign, with community members turning out in large numbers to help select a Webster Parish resident to receive a free heating and air conditioning system.
After reviewing nominations submitted from across the parish, organizers announced April 27 that the field had been narrowed to five finalists, and final voting was opened to the public through the campaign website, BlessingMinden.com.
“After reviewing so many incredible nominations, we’ve narrowed it down — and now it’s YOUR turn to decide who will receive this life-changing blessing!” AC Services posted.
Company officials stressed that all votes must be submitted through the website and noted that Facebook reactions and comments do not count toward the total.
Public participation was immediate, with organizers reporting nearly 300 votes on the first day of online voting. By April 29, the total had climbed past 500 votes, and by April 30, more than 1,000 votes had been cast.
“We are blown away by the support our community is giving these incredible nominees,” the company stated.
Voting will remain open through May 8, with residents encouraged to continue sharing the contest and inviting others to participate.
The five finalists, all of whom were nominated for their service, resilience, and commitment to others, include Barbara Goston, Gloria Moody, Sharlene Warren, Brandi White, and Richard Scott.
Barbara Goston was recognized for her grassroots ministry, Food 4 the Soul, which began with cooking meals and distributing them from the trunk of her car and has since grown into a communitywide outreach feeding hundreds. Organizers said her work offers not only meals, but also compassion, mentorship, and hope, particularly to local youth.
Gloria Moody was honored for her decades of dedication to education, mentoring, community service, and preserving Black history in Minden. Even in retirement, she continues donating books, supporting young people, and helping keep local history alive.
Sharlene Warren, affectionately known by many as “Memaw,” was nominated for a lifetime of caring for children, volunteering through her church, and offering generosity and encouragement to those around her. Organizers described her as a cornerstone of the community who continues to uplift others following the loss of her husband of 56 years.
Brandi White, a United States veteran, was selected as a finalist for her continued service to veterans and families across Northwest Louisiana. Through her work supporting veteran service offices in multiple parishes, White was praised for her leadership, compassion, and commitment to putting others first.
Richard Scott was nominated after a December 1, 2024, vehicle accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. Organizers said maintaining a safe home environment has become increasingly difficult as he is bedridden and unable to regulate body temperature, making reliable heating and cooling a critical need.
AC Services officials said each nominee represents the kind of quiet strength and selflessness the Operation Blessing program was created to honor.
The recipient of the free HVAC system will be announced following the close of voting.