Hundreds of students receive school supplies from valley church
Hundreds of families lined up outside of Sword of the Lord Ministries Church in Thousand Palms and flooded sidewalks down the block Saturday in the back-to-school spirit.
Some people arrived as early as 5:45 a.m. for the Sword of the Lord Ministries 3rd Annual Backpack & School Supply Giveaway.
“I think it’s excellent because people are in need of supplies and some people can’t afford them,” said ninth grader Alberto Solano.
After much anticipation students grades K-12 received the supplies they were all looking for and need. About 550 backpacks were available, but supplies went fast.
Families enjoyed live music and received eye screening information provided by Wal-Mart. They also shopped for free clothes and shoes in the clothing donation room andfilled up on a free barbecue.
“It’s very hard right now to get stuff, supplies for your kids in the economy right now,” said Vanessa Parra, a mother of four children.
With big smiles, children at the event are ready to take on the new school year one notebook and pencil at a time.
“I’m excited to go back to school because it’s fun,” said seven-year-old Alexandra Falcon.
“What I love about school is math and reading.I want to be a doctor,” said fourth grader Aaron Arellano.
News Channel 3 & CBS Local 2 partnered with Sword of the Lord Ministries to collect backpacks and supplies. We’d like to thank all of you who donated to help local students go back to class prepared.
If you are still in need, the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission in Indio will host its annual Backpack Bonanza August 22 at 8 a.m. VisitCVRM.orgto find out how you can support the cause.
