Local church to hold annual school supply giveaway

With the summer break passing quickly, preparations for the upcoming session of school are already underway.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, Union Baptist Church will hold its annual Back to School supply giveaway.

“This is an event the church sponsors every year,” said organizer Nedra Candler. “The purpose of the school drive is to help families and their children and it has been very successful in the past.”

Candler said each year, an average of 60-80 families have benefited from the supply drive.

“We receive donations from private contributors and some area businesses have also been able to donate,” said Candler. “We will accept supplies from anyone who would like to help.”

For those who would like to assist, Candler said people could contact one of the organizers to make arrangements to drop off the supplies.

“Donations can also be brought to the church’s Family Life Center at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug 2., when we will be filling the back packs for Saturday’s event,” she said.

Along with any school supplies, the most needed items will be the back packs themselves, she said. The event also provides uniforms for those who may need them.

“We will be giving supplies to students of all grades and uniforms of all sizes specifically for Jeff Davis Parish schools,” said Candler. “The supply giveaway is open to anyone in the community, anyone in need.”

Area principals will be present on Saturday morning to provide information to parents and students.

“All three Jennings principals will be speak of their plans for educating our children,” said Candler. “They will be on hand to answer any questions parents or students may have.”

Union Baptist Church is located at 1014 S. Main St. For more information, contact Candler at (337) 326-8457, Andranette Lee at (337) 370-0228 or Louwanda Simon at (337) 370-2246.