| |
 |
 |
Churches Use Backpacks to Reach Needy FamiliesMT. VERNON, WA (August 30, 2007) – On Saturday, members of Bethany Covenant Church helped distribute 850 backpacks filled with school supplies to children who might not otherwise be able to afford them. Children also were able to have fun at carnival booths during the event, and families received a variety of additional goods and services, says Vicki Lund, associate pastor of children and senior ministries.  Roughly 1,400 people attended, Lund says. Organizers distributed 500 bags of new and used clothing, provided 80 haircuts, and gave away diapers, hygiene kits and other parenting resources. They also served 1,300 plates of pancakes and sausage.The churches supplied English and Spanish bibles. Volunteers said they prayed for various needs with more than 600 people. This was the sixth year for the activity, which is sponsored by several churches and community organizations, says Lund. Because it is the largest church in the community, Bethany has hosted the event the last three years. The need is great, says Lund, explaining, “Our community is made up of many low-income families who work in agricultural jobs.” Sixty percent of the elementary age children need free or reduced-cost lunches, she notes. Increasingly churches are distributing backpacks as a way to help their neighbors. The events often involve other family activities such as the carnival. Some churches budget for the events, but Bethany does not. “Three churches took offerings including ours,” says Lund. “We set aside our monthly benevolent offering for this event and raised $2,300 by telling the congregation that it only took $10 dollars outfit one child.” The church purchased backpacks online for $5 each, and local chain stores offered large discounts on supplies, Lund says. A local foundation contributed more than $5,000. Altogether, more than $10,000 was raised. “We only promote and advertise in low-income apartments, migrant camps, social service agencies, and businesses,” says Lund. All who receive the supplies are more than deserving, she adds. “Anyone can come, but all must register, and the lines are very long at first. I doubt anyone of means would be willing to do this.” Lund says volunteers from the different churches and organizations already are looking forward to next year. Bethany is committed to serving the community, Lund says. As part of its ministry, the church operates a free after-school program that reaches out to latchkey children. To learn more about the church and its ministries, please visit Bethany Covenant. Copyright © 2008 The Evangelical Covenant Church. |
|
|
Comment on this news story (Comments may be published in the online Readers Share feature)
News Comments |
Who We Are · Local Churches & Conferences · Denominational Ministries · Institutional Ministries · Support Ministries · Outreach Ministries · Inicio Copyright © 2008 The Evangelical Covenant Church. 5101 N Francisco Ave., Chicago IL 60625. 773-784-3000. Privacy Policy & Terms of Use. |
| |
