The idea to begin this ministry came from a few retired Pittsylvania County school teachers and administrators. Through the many years of their dedicated service to the people of Pittsylvania County, they saw firsthand the relationship between underachievement in the classroom and hunger. A child simply cannot function at a high level if they are under nourished. With a heart dedicated to serving Jesus and to loving others, the retirees set out to help make a difference.
When the ministry was started, the initial goal was to focus on providing weekly bags of non-perishable food items to school children in need at Stony Mill and Brosville Elementary Schools. Today, the ministry serves two additional schools (Tunstall Middle and Tunstall High Schools), and we anticipate delivering approximately 200 bags of food each week during the ’24 -’25 school year.
As you know, food costs have significantly increased. This increase coupled with a growing need has made the program, once manageable for a few small churches, become more financially challenging. Our projected food costs for this school year are approximately $22,000. With the current financial commitments from four participating churches, we anticipate a budget shortfall of around 45% or almost $10,000.
We humbly ask that you prayerfully consider donating to this ministry.
Three small churches, united in faith, began the Backpack Ministry. Through the years, God has amplified our impact. Now we believe He is calling us to encourage other people to participate. With your help we can ensure that each of the 200 students receives additional food that’s not available in their homes.
The purpose of this ministry is to glorify God, to share our love with others, and to demonstrate to the community what it means to function, together, as the body of Christ. If you give to this ministry, 100% of your donation will be used to help nourish a child in need—a child that just might be one of your neighbors. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you in achieving this objective.
Listed below are some of the items the kids receive in their weekly bags when you help support this ministry.
Each month volunteers meet to pack bags at Whitmell Church of Faith. We have a lot of bags to pack and would welcome your help. If you are interested in volunteering to help pack or helping in other ways, send us a message, and we will be in touch!
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