CrossNet Backpack Giveaway Scheduled
"We are going back to a more normal (back-to-school) event," said Lisa Kerstetter, CrossNet Ministries director of marketing and events. By normal, Kerstetter means a backpack, school supplies, and more giveaway that will include an introduction to community resources and allowing more than 25 people at a time into the facility where the event is held.
This year's Back-to-School and More Student Backpack Giveaway will be held at the CrossNet Ministries Youth Center, 110 W. Franklin St., New Holland, on Tuesday, Aug. 10, 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, 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 snacks and a beverage and a free ice cream cone.
CrossNet backpack drives through several local organizations began on July 1, but individuals are welcome to donate backpacks and school supplies at the CrossNet Ministries offices at 123 W. Franklin St., New Holland. Requested items are new, sturdy backpacks for students of all ages, 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, items may be shipped to CrossNet.
To provide free haircuts, Kerstetter is in need of hairdressers and barbers who are willing to donate their talents on Aug. 10. Interested individuals may call 717-355-2454 or email lisa@elancocross.org.
In 2020, the number of backpacks given away by the ministry decreased from more than 500 to only 460. "Our numbers were down last year because parents were homeschooling or doing virtual schooling," recalled Kerstetter. "I think this year, (the number given away) will go back to normal," she said, adding that she anticipates needing 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.
Kerstetter conveyed that she believes it is essential for each child to start school with the necessary supplies and clothing. She noted that these items and haircut can help build confidence in a student. The mission of the event is to give away quality backpacks filled with the supplies children in all grades of the ELANCO schools require to be successful.
More information about the mission of CrossNet is available at http://www.elancocross.org under "community."
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