by Joyce Mills
As I write this, classrooms packed, desks emptied, another school year complete. It’s officially summertime, and for kids, that means a few precious weeks of sweet, sticky freedom.
When kids from low-income families leave school for the summer the outlook isn’t always as sunny. While their more affluent peers may be visiting libraries, having picnics, going on vacations, visiting grandparents, attending summer camps and reading favorite stories every night, kids in need often spend their summer weeks without even enough food, much less enjoying all the enrichment activities mentioned.
Over the years, things add up – by the end of 5th grade, some kids from low-income families are often nearly three grades behind their peers in reading levels, have low self-esteem, have lost their desire to learn, and have poor attendance at school. Add being hungry to the list and it makes us wonder what chance some children even have.
As you read this, it is time to begin thinking about who will be working in the Backpack Ministry this school year? It takes about 24 people to keep the program moving smoothly for a month. It also takes about $6.00 to fill one backpack for a week or around $30.00 for a month. It is a wonderful feeling to know that giving a child a backpack full of food each week just might be one of the keys to a brighter future. AND, it takes us all working together to do this! COME! Be a part of this very special mission project!
Did I mention that those packing the backpacks each Wednesday have such fun working together as a team? You get to know other church members, as well as doing something very worthy with your time. YOU are needed!
Don’t forget – we’re stocking up on cans of pasta with meat or 18 oz. plastic jars of Peanut Butter this summer. Just put your contribution on the back counter in the kitchen. If you have questions or wonders, please call Joyce at 304.252.0534.