An organization that aims to help families in poverty rise above their financial situations is hosting a pop-up boutique in Meridian Friday to raise money for its cause.

Rise Above Poverty, or RAP,  provides education and grants to those in need so they may better themselves and create a financially stable life. The organization is in its 18th year of service, Project Director Patricia Flowers said in a news release.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, the nonprofit will conduct a pop-up boutique at Dumont Plaza, showcasing baked goods, jams and jellies, candles, Father’s Day gifts and door prizes.

RAP has worked with Habitat for Humanity, The Magnolia State Superstars CB Club, Meridian businesses, the Wechsler Community Arts Center and many others, Flowers said.

“We have placed over 2,000 books in barbershops in Meridian, honored 36 Women Who Rock, provided several small scholarships to students at MCC, paid rent, utility bills, purchased automobile batteries and steel toe boots, just to name a few services,” Flowers said.

The organization uses information, education, volunteering and grants to combat poverty in America. Its volunteering system and financial assistance opportunities also plays a role in what it does for the community.

To receive grants, families must agree to volunteer in the community with one of RAP’s partner organizationsm according to its website. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 43.1 million Americans living in poverty in 2016. In Lauderdale County, 23 percent of the population was below the poverty level in that same period, according to the census.

For more information, visit the RAP Facebook page at facebook.com/riseabovepovertyorganization.