A new mural on Operation Refuge Thrift Shop, 904 E. Houston St., in Cleveland, Texas, is turning heads and brightening the neighborhood. The mural, featuring joyful images of children, was designed to reflect Operation Refuge’s mission of supporting underprivileged families and children in the Cleveland area.
Created by artist Cherry Meekins of Meek Cherry Artistry, the mural’s vibrant images capture the spirit of welcoming everyone in the community, honoring all ethnic groups. Operation Refuge Founder Frieda White said that was her goal from the start.
“We wanted a mural that would represent the diversity and unity of our community,” White explained.
While every character in the mural has a story to tell, one image stands out in particular. A blonde-haired child with a beaming smile bears a resemblance to White’s late granddaughter, Jessica Bostwick. Though unintended, the joyful expression on the mural reflects Jessica’s exuberance during her short life.
Another child in the mural is shown holding a Salvation Army bell—a symbol of hope and generosity during the holiday season. White noted that donations to the Salvation Army play a critical role in helping Operation Refuge carry out its mission, especially during the holidays when the need is greatest.
“The need grows every year,” White shared. “We have over a thousand people coming through the food pantry every month. It’s more than your mind can comprehend.”
Operation Refuge is well known for its year-round support of struggling families, providing food and, during Christmas, ensuring that no child is left without a gift. This mural, with its bright colors and joyful scenes, is a reminder of the impact the organization has on the community.
This is the sixth mural created by Meekins in the Cleveland area. Her other works can be found on buildings for the old Texan Theatre, the old Cleveland Advocate building, the Cleveland Historical Society, Cameron Real Estate office, and Martin Collision Center, making her artwork a familiar sight in the city.
