Christian Service Council Helps 130 Children Prepare for School

The Grant County Christian Service Council (CSC) hosted its annual Back to School giveaway event Wednesday, August 9, at the Milbank Visitor Center. The project helped nearly 130 children from 60 families prepare for the upcoming school year.

“The giveaway went very well,” stated Interlakes Community Action Partnership community service worker Heather Rise. “All the families were excited and appreciative for all they received. It’s a great event which in turn helps these families alleviate the stress of back to school shopping for their children.”

Each child received a backpack and school supplies. The backpacks were donated by the Salvation Army, and the CSC provided the supplies. Vouchers in the amount of $60 to Shopko were given for families to purchase socks, shoes, and underwear for the children.

The council made a change this year. Instead of a coupon for school spirit wear, each family received a coupon to the Community Thrift Store in Milbank to buy three pairs of pants and three shirts to start the school year. “That way, each child could get more clothing to start the year,” explained Rise. Items on the school supply list such as tissues, baggies and headphones are provided directly to each child’s school.

Families were also treated to photos of their family by VPD Studio. “The photos were a huge hit,” expressed Rise. “For many of these families, that was the first family photo they have ever taken.” A free lunch was also served to nearly 100 people during the day.