Back-to-School Giveaway Brings Hope and Support to Madison Park Community

"Back to School Giveaway Brings Hope and Support to Madison Park Community"

By: Kerry O. O. Kerr

In the spirit of service and unity, the Connect Baltimore Ministry of Berea Temple Seventh-Day Adventist Church, in partnership with several local ministries, hosted a vibrant "Back to School Festival (Block Party)", providing crucial support to families in the Madison Park community and beyond. The event, which took place on Saturday 17th August, aimed to ensure that students were equipped with the necessary tools for a successful school year while fostering a sense of community and faith.

With permission from the city, the entire block was cordoned off to facilitate the grand extravaganza. The 300 block of Robert Street was abuzz with excitement, as scores of children, parents, and community members gathered for the event. Connect Baltimore, known for its strong commitment to outreach and service, spearheaded the program, which has become an annual tradition in Madison Park. This year, the event was made even more impactful by the collaboration of several local ministry partners, all sharing the same mission of helping those in need.

A Community Effort

The day was filled with joy and laughter, but the focus was clear: ensuring that every child was prepared for the upcoming school year. Ministry partners like Community Service, The Hospitality Committee, and Women’s Ministry joined Connect Baltimore in providing over 200 backpacks stuffed with school supplies, including notebooks, pencils, rulers, and crayons. Additionally, there were tables set up for healthy snacks giveaways, a session on how to prepare healthy lunch for scholars, and even new shoes for students of all ages.

Dr. Smith (AEC Community Services Director) who was in attendance, emphasized the importance of the giveaway, saying, “There’re not just giving out school supplies; there’re giving hope. Given the financial strain many families are under, and it’s our responsibility as a church to step in and help wherever we can. This is an awesome event.”

The effort was not just about physical supplies, though. The youth and young adult ministry Connect Baltimore attracted volunteers from various ministries spent time praying with families, encouraging students to strive for excellence, and offering support to parents facing difficult times.

A Day of Celebration and Preparation

For the children, the day was full of excitement and anticipation. Many students ran from table to table, excitedly picking out new backpacks and supplies. Volunteers, both young and old, were on hand to help children select what they needed, while ensuring every student left with a smile. The Shave Ice truck was the hit of the afternoon with long lines until everything ran out. The hot dogs and popcorn added to the delight of the community members, some of whom saw it akin to a community fair.

Parents expressed their gratitude throughout the day. "I don’t know what we would’ve done without this," said one mother of three. "It’s hard sometimes to make ends meet, and knowing that my children are ready for school lifts such a weight off my shoulders. I’m so thankful for everyone who made this possible."

As the event came to a close, Pastor Maurice N. Taylor, Senior Pastor of Berea Temple, took a moment to address the crowd. He reminded the community that God’s love is abundant and ever-present, even in difficult times. “We’re here because we care,” Pastor Taylor said. “And more importantly, God cares. Every pencil, every book, every smile today is a reflection of His love for you.”

Looking Ahead

The "Back to School Giveaway" was more than just an event—it was a demonstration of what can be accomplished when the church and community come together with a shared purpose. For many families in Madison Park, this day was a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles. Connect Baltimore and its ministry partners brought not just supplies, but hope, compassion, and the love of Christ to a community in need.

Baltimore Connect – Berea Temple, in collaboration with ministries partners exemplified the power of faith in action at the "Back to School Giveaway." The event not only provided essential supplies but also created a spirit of hope, unity, and love that will continue to resonate in Madison Park and surrounding communities for years to come.

About the Author:

Kerry Kerr is in charge of young adult ministries (Baltimore Connect) at Berea Temple.