CrossNet Schedules Backpack Giveaway
Lisa Kerstetter, CrossNet Ministries director of marketing and events, has strong feelings about the items children should have when they return to school in the fall and how having those items affects their outlook. "Kids going back to school need something to be excited about," she said. "If you don't have anything new or exciting, school can be intimidating and kids might not feel as confident. A fresh haircut and clothing can help a student build confidence. That's my philosophy."
To back up her words, Kerstetter coordinates the CrossNet Ministries Back-to-School and More Student Backpack Giveaway, which will be held at the CrossNet Ministries Youth Center, 110 W. Franklin St., New Holland, on Tuesday, Aug. 9, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Backpacks filled with school supplies are available for all ELANCO School District students in kindergarten through grade 12 who are participating in free and reduced-cost lunch programs. Proof of residency in the school district such as an electric or phone bill will be necessary to receive a free backpack.
In addition to backpacks, resources such as free haircuts, the Anchored Ministries Clothing Closet, and information from an ELANCO School District representative will be available. Free food items, which will be provided while supplies last, will include hot dogs, snacks, a beverage, and ice cream. To provide free haircuts, Kerstetter is in need of hairdressers and barbers who are willing to donate their talents on Aug. 9. Interested individuals may call 717-355-2454 or email lisa@elancocross.org.
To fill the backpacks, CrossNet will hold a drive during the month of July. "I have 15 bins to give out to the community, and they will be delivered by Thursday, June 30, so that businesses, organizations, and churches can run their drives," said Kerstetter. Requested items are new, sturdy backpacks for students of all ages, along with pens, spiral tablets, pocket folders, rulers, notebook paper, three-ring binders, highlighters, water-based markers, safety scissors, crayons, mechanical pencils, colored pencils, pencil cases, pencil sharpeners, index cards, glue sticks, erasers, and small tissue packets. Financial donations will also be accepted. For those who prefer to shop online, an Amazon wishlist is available, and items may be shipped to CrossNet.
In 2021, nearly 500 backpacks were given away. Kerstetter would like to have 550 full backpacks for the school year. Any leftover backpacks will be given away through churches and the school district on an as-needed basis. More information about the mission of CrossNet is available at http://www.elancocross.org under "Community."
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