DUMFRIES, Va. — Grace Church in Dumfries will support over 200 families with its annual Back To School Give Away. The church set a goal of providing backpacks for over 226 students. The Helping Hands of Grace Ministry is accepting gently used clothes, new school supplies and non-perishable lunch items. Donations can be delivered to Grace Church by August 20.
According to the National Retail Federation, in 2013 back to school spending averaged $634.78 for families with children in grades K-12. The cost increases dramatically when college age students are included. Grace Church and its Helping Hands of Grace Ministry hopes to help families in Dumfries bear some of the financial burden.
“For over a decade, Grace Church has been committed to being a good neighbor,” said Deaconess Teri Milton, Grace Church Helping Hands Coordinator. “The Back to School Give Away is just one of many annual outreach activities that we host to support the Dumfries community.”
The Back To School Give Away will take place on August 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grace Church Ambassador Center located at 17889 Fraley Blvd.
“As a parent, I understand well the dread and excitement that comes from the very words ‘back to school,’” said Bishop Derek Grier, Senior Pastor of Grace Church. “For many parents, the dread comes from the huge financial burden of buying school supplies. The Grace Church Back to School Give Away will help families shoulder some of that burden.”
“We want to fill the backpacks with needed supplies, so we can fill the hearts and homes of the children in our community,” said Sherece Stewart a school teacher who serves as a Grace Church Helping Hands Volunteer. “As a teacher, I automatically know which kids don’t have their needed supplies on the first day, because they are the ones who come in with their heads down.”
In addition to the school supply drive, which benefits over 200 neighborhood kids each year, Grace Church provides Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners to local families. The Church gives away almost 2,000 pounds of food each month to Dumfries families and throughout the year provides financial support to help families struggling with utilities and rent.
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For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
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