ASHLAND — Ashland Church of Christ is helping area children gear up for school by hosting the annual School Supply Give-Away.
The church will open its doors 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17 to any child kindergarten through 6th grade in need of school supplies for the upcoming school year.
“Children from all over the area come to the church and receive all the basic supplies they need for the school year,” explained Jane White, the event’s coordinator.
In addition to providing school supplies, the church will open its clothing closets. Both children and adults can be outfitted with any clothing they need, all for free.
“This is the sixth year we have done the School Supply Give-Away for the community,” White explained. “It’s uplifting to see the impact it makes on families. I remember seeing a grandmother last year just in tears because it meant so much to her that she was able to provide for her grandchildren, who she was raising. The kids got all of their supplies and clothes for the year.”
Church Elder Huey Bean commented that the church’s purpose in this giveaway is to do what it can to help those in need – not just for the congregation but for the community. “Some people come in feeling hesitant and seem to think that there is a catch, but there isn’t. Everything is free and we don’t try to pressure anyone into coming to church. Everyone leaves with a smile. It’s all about giving.”
All of the school supplies are generously donated by the church congregation and are based on the local school district supplies lists, so students will receive exactly what they need. Up to 200 children can be served. There will also be free hot dogs and munchies provided.
Preacher Tim Nowlin shared his excitement for the Give-Away. “We enjoy meeting the school supply needs, but what is better is meeting great people in our community and communicating God’s love, even in this small way.”
The church is located at 1185 County Road 1356 (West Main Street, just a quarter-mile past Baney Road on the left as you head out of town). All community members who feel a need for school supply or clothing assistance are welcome. No proof of need is required. Special school supplies such as earbuds, special calculators, tissues, etc. will not be provided.
