HISTORY

The existence of Sally Kate Winters Family Services is evidence that one person can make a positive difference in the lives of many.

SKW was formally established as Sally Kate Winters Memorial Children’s Home in 1990. Prior to that time, upon being removed from home by police officers or Child Protective Services, the only place children in our area could be taken for emergency shelter was the sheriff’s department. This deeply concerned Deputy Cassandra Smith with the Clay County Sheriff’s Department, and that was the spark of what would become Sally Kate Winters Family Services.

Deputy Smith made a phone call to Martha Winters in 1988. Together, they established the first Board of Directors of the Sally Kate Winters Memorial Children’s Home - a tribute to Martha Winters for her tireless effort in the establishment of a local children’s shelter. Over the years, both Martha Winters and Preston Winters offered support for the agency and the programs that impact children in need in remembrance of their only daughter, Sally Kate Winters.

Sally Kate was two months away from graduating from The University of Mississippi when she was involved in a tragic car accident. Like her parents, she believed in community service and helping others. Through memorial foundations and the existence of Sally Kate Winters Family Services, her compassionate spirit continues to impact the lives of children and families across the state.