Lynn Church Hosts Free Back-to-School Giveaway This Saturday

The Lynn First Church of Nazarene is set to host its third annual backpack and school supplies giveaway this Saturday, August 9, 2023, from 11:00 to 14:00. This community event aims to support local families by providing essential school supplies for students as they prepare for the upcoming academic year.

Approximately 100 backpacks have been generously donated by the church, the Juneteenth Northshore Association, and local Girl Scouts troops. The Girl Scouts contributed to this effort by utilizing part of the proceeds from their cookie sales to fund the supplies. Each backpack will include a variety of essential items such as a notebook, pencil case, pencils, a pen, an eraser, and colored pencils.

Pastor Gina Cordy of the First Church of Nazarene emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Backpacks and school supplies can be costly for a lot of families. We wanted to give what is needed at a time when it would be needed.”

Community leaders are underscoring the significance of ensuring that all students feel included and supported. Nicole McClain, Lynn Councilor at Large and President of the Northshore Juneteenth Association, highlighted this sentiment, saying, “Students need to feel a sense of belonging. If everyone else around them has what they need to start the school year, and they don’t, they feel othered.”

Community Engagement and Additional Activities

This year, the First Church of Nazarene is partnering with the Centerboard Lynn Family Resource Center to enhance the community spirit of the event. The collaboration includes a food drive to collect donations of non-perishable food items, further assisting families in need.

To keep young attendees engaged, the event will feature a variety of activities, including sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and an arts and crafts station. Local resident Steve Thayer will provide a cookout, with Old Neighborhood donating two cases of hot dogs for the occasion. Additionally, members of the Lynn Police Department plan to attend, fostering a sense of safety and community.

Program Director Olivia Grinstead of the Centerboard Lynn Family Resource Center expressed the event’s goals, stating, “We want people to feel comfortable and welcome. The main priority is bringing a sense of belonging and togetherness for the families.”

The community event will run until supplies last, and it aims to ensure that every student returns to school feeling prepared and valued. This initiative not only helps alleviate the financial burden on families but also reinforces the importance of community support and connection as the new school year approaches.