Empowering Education: A Successful Back-to-School Drive in Sandtown-Winchester
As the summer days begin to wane and the anticipation of a new school year looms on the horizon, The Salvation Army of Central Maryland joined hands with ZIPS Drycleaning and Today's 101.9 to created “Tools for School”, a back-to-school fundraiser where donors can donate necessary school supplies at their local ZIPS drycleaning location. Thanks to “Tools for School”, we were able to receive 2,677 notebooks, rulers, color pencils, backpacks, pencil bags, pens, folders, and even clothes. All proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly to disadvantaged children and families living in Central Maryland.
Recently, The Salvation Army of Central Maryland teamed up with BGE/Exelon, to provide necessary back to school supplies to children and families living in Sandtown-Winchester on August 19, 2023 at St. Luke United Methodist Church. The St. Luke's United Methodist Church Back-to-School Event, held this past weekend, was a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit.
With the start of every academic year, the demand for school supplies rises. However, this year, the need was more pressing than ever. Families across the nation, and especially in underserved communities, faced economic challenges that made acquiring essential back-to-school items a struggle.
Wanda Maul, a dedicated representative of St. Luke's United Methodist Church, reached out to The Salvation Army with a heartfelt plea for assistance. The congregation recognized the strain on families within their community and aimed to provide not just school supplies, but also a sense of encouragement for the coming school year. The partnership was forged, and the stage was set for a remarkable event.
The St. Luke's Back-to-School Event surpassed all expectations, impacting the lives of over 119 children and parents from Sandtown-Winchester. The atmosphere was charged with positivity as families gathered to receive backpacks filled with school essentials. The event was more than just a distribution; it was a celebration of hope and unity.
Beyond the crucial supplies, the event brought a festive spirit to the community. Attendees enjoyed delicious burgers, hot dogs, and refreshing snow cones, turning the occasion into a memorable family experience.
Central to the success of the event were the incredible volunteers who dedicated their time and energy. Among them were heartwarming stories of dedication like that of 9-year-old Miracle and 22-year-old Angel. Their selflessness demonstrated the power of youth in fostering change.
Additionally, a familiar face in the Salvation Army community, Daniel Davis, played a pivotal role. Known for his unwavering commitment to volunteering and providing volunteers for The Salvation Army’s Commodity Supplemental Food Warehouse, Davis galvanized a team from BGE/Exelon, resulting in substantial donations of school supplies.
Major Roger Glick, Area Commander from The Salvation Army of Central Maryland, expressed his gratitude, saying, "We are truly blessed to have accomplished a successful back-to-school drive alongside our incredible partners. As we come together to support these families, we are sowing the seeds for a brighter future. We believe that this school year will hold promise and potential for countless children and adults in need."
The St. Luke's Back-to-School Event serves as a beacon of light, reminding us that when communities unite, incredible transformations can occur. The collaborative effort of The Salvation Army of Central Maryland, ZIPS Drycleaning, and Today's 101.9 with “Tools for School” embodies the essence of compassion and goodwill. By standing together, we have paved the way for a prosperous school year, ensuring that every child and adult embarks on their educational journey with the tools they need to succeed.
