On Sunday, Feb. 27, more than 400 adults students from Orland Park (Ill.) Christian Reformed Church assembled 2,000 school supply packs for children in Haiti.
The packs, which will be delivered this summer, include notebooks, crayons, markers, and pencils—things every student needs but can't always afford.
Every February is Global Missions Awareness Month at Orland Park CRC. Sermons are tied to the topic and members are encouraged to get involved in volunteer opportunities throughout the month.
“It was a great family experience because the kids were able to get involved,” said Cindy Vander Laan, volunteer coordinator at the church.
“Hopefully parents will go home and explain to their children that some kids in this world do not have crayons or school supplies. We want to teach the next generation, right away, to be more compassionate with those around the world who do not have anything.”
The church worked with Elim Christian Services, an organization that works with people with disabilities. Elim's HOPE Packs program has produced everything from school packs to food packs to hygiene packs, which have been distributed around the world.
Elim provided the supplies for the school packs, and some of their students worked alongside members of the church. The church took a special offering to cover the costs of the supplies and shipping.
About the Author
Melissa Holtrop
