In 2005, CTLC began a program specific to school-age children
entitled “Backpack Buddies.” It really
starts in May or June. Students in need
are assessed by Community in Schools (CIS) representatives from within area
schools.
People in the community are asked to be “Backpack Buddies” for
one or more of these students. They
purchase a student backpack and, based on the supply list from that student’s
school, they fill that backpack with the supplies that student will need. They also agree to pray for that student
during the coming year. Each backpack
is given out at the school during an Open House right before school
starts.
In 2005, volunteers provided over 500 fully loaded backpacks to students
in the Temple ISD. This year the goal
is 1051 students. Individuals wishing
to purchase supplies for a backpack should contact CTLC at (254) 778-6885 and
leave your name and contact number. We
will pass this on to Carol Lynch who is heading up this program.
Troy ISD began participating in Backpack Buddies in 2007 with 50
students receiving backpacks (pre-K, Kindergarten, handicapped, and 1st
grade). This year they have added 2nd
grade with a goal of 75 students. One
difference between the Temple and Troy Backpack Buddies outreach is that Troy
purchases their backpacks already filled with the specific items needed by that
grade-level student while those individuals participating in the Temple
Backpack Buddies outreach will normally need to purchase supplies on their own
to fill a backpack.
If you would prefer to make a donation, $50 will cover ONE
backpack plus supplies for a child for a year. For the Temple ISD Backpack Buddies Program, you may send
your donation to CTLC (P.O. Box 4482, Temple, TX 76505) or your local
church if they are participating in this outreach. For the Troy ISD Backpack Buddies
Program, your donation should be sent to the Troy Ministerial Alliance
or to First Baptist Church of Troy (20 Church Street, Troy, TX
76579). Please indicate that this is a
donation to Backpack Buddies.