SALEM – A large number of children in northern Franklin County will receive backpacks, school supplies, handmade pillowcases and pillows this year, thanks to a program run by the United Methodist Economic Ministry.
The ministry supports the region with a food cupboard, thrift shop, housing rehabilitation program undertaken by mission teams, warming center, but one of their longer-running projects has been the backpack and sneakers program. A mission team from Saratoga Springs has for many years sorted school supplies, sneakers and backpacks purchased with donated funds and readied them for delivery.
“With donations from many churches and individuals we were able to provide over 165 filled backpacks and sneakers,” Rev. Michele St. Cyr, director of the United Methodist Economic Ministry said.
The ministry’s efforts are supported by thrift shop sales, local congregations and United Way of the Tri-Valley Area.
“United Way has helped support our programs in many ways,” Cyr said. “We enjoy and are grateful for their partnership in our mission and celebrate all they for the people of our area.”
The giveaway also includes handmade pillowcases and new pillows to give to children, an addition from the previous year.
“Not only what was needed for school, but a special treat,” Cyr said. “A special pillow and case made for each child.”
This organization continues to give and give. When Reverend Reid first started this when I was young ( a long time ago) I never thought that it would endure and expand as it has. God bless you all
And gives some more. Thank you all so much for giving to our local children! Blessing to you all!
Great job! The good work continues….
I loved this story !!
This is a wonderful program! Love the Ministry!
Enjoyed being a part of this. I’d like to hear what the kids think about it.