The annual David Josiah Lawson winter supply distribution event is this Saturday

The annual David Josiah Lawson winter supply distribution is an event created to honor Josiah’s life and give back to those in need in Humboldt County. The former Humboldt State University (now Cal Poly Humboldt) student, Josiah, was stabbed to death while attending an Arcata house party in April 2017. His mother, Charmaine Lawson, keeps his legacy alive by organizing events like this one. 

“We want to give back to those who are less fortunate,” Lawson said. “DJ was a giver.”

At this year’s event, coats, beanies, gloves, socks and hygiene supplies will be given to those in need on Saturday at the Arcata City Hall starting at 3 p.m.

“There’s a lot of unhoused people in Humboldt County and it’s super cold and I just want to let them know that our family, the Lawson Family, have love and compassion for those in need,” Lawson said. “So that is why I started it in honor of my son.”

So far they have more than one hundred bags packed. They would like to double that number. The Justice for Josiah committee is seeking volunteers for the event and interested people to become members of the committee.  

“We do need a lot of hands-on deck,” Lawson said. “It’s been six years and still my son has not received justice and we need to make sure that people know that there’s still a murderer walking in the street.” 

Lawson also shared that she wants this Saturday to be a celebration for her son. Everyone is welcome to join this event. Lawson extends the invitation to those who have also lost their loved ones to violence. She wants to celebrate those lives too.

“I never just celebrate for DJ, I celebrate for all the murdered and missing in Humboldt County and even throughout the world,” Lawson said. “We just want to shed light and give people hope.” 

Donations are now being accepted at the Arcata City Hall for this year’s annual winter supply distribution event. The event starts on Saturday at 3 p.m.