Thank you to all who contributed in any way—in-kind donations, cash donations, item donations, volunteering—to this year’s 2018 school supply drive. We filled 257 backpacks, 150 hygiene kits, and packed supplies for 13 schools and organizations during two weeks in mid-August. Almost 20,000 supplies were collected, purchased, and distributed during July and August for 700 – 800 students. Most of the supplies will stay in district 196 for students in need, with some going to area students in Dakota County and the general Twins Cities area. This ministry and the efforts of all volunteers are greatly appreciated by our community and especially the recipients of these supplies. This ministry makes it possible for students to have the tools they need to be ready for school, something they might not otherwise have.
The annual SOTV school supply collection and distribution would not exist without the continued support of this congregation. Financial support comes through proceeds from Golf, Gears, and Gutters for the Good in the spring, and donations directly to school supplies during the summer collection months. This ministry also received a Thrivent grant which was used to purchase supplies. In-kind donations collected during July and August helped to defray the cost of this ministry, allowing us to meet the requested needs of local schools and organizations.
