An Illinois church recently gave away hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies to families in need.
Illinois Church
Whiteash Free Will Baptist Church in Marion, Illinois continued their annual gift-giving to students in their community despite pandemic. This year is their fourth year of serving the community through such a charity drive.
“We know that how this school year will look is still a bit uncertain, but students will still need supplies, whether they are in the classroom or remote learning from home,” said Stephanie Lee, wife of senior pastor Andy Lee.
Charity event
On July 25, they were able to distribute over 300 backpacks with school supplies. Around 200 more backpacks are to be given away to students in days to come.
“We have received more requests from people who weren’t able to come to the event. We are coordinating to be able to fulfill those requests,” she added.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the charity event was being held outdoors instead of indoors. Unlike in the past years, there are no free lunch or haircuts for this year. Stephanie describes the event as a “drive-through” gathering to observe social distancing and safety protocols. Church volunteers also shared the Gospel with the families while they are in their cars waiting for their turn to receive the gifts.
“Our greatest desire is for people to come to know Jesus and the hope He gives. We also want them to know that Whiteash Free Will Baptist Church cares about our community, and we strive to show the love of Christ in everything we do,” she said.
The backpacks are filled with crayons, markers, pencils, and scissors for younger students. While the older students received binders, notebook paper, folders, pens, and pencils.
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