School bookbags stuffed today for Saturday giveaway at Covelli Centre

BOARDMAN

The work and fun and satisfaction of filling 1,500 brand new, colorful book bags with school supplies, an event one of the 50-plus participants described as “organized chaos,” was Tuesday at Trinity Fellowship Church.

The pay-off comes Saturday at the Covelli Centre in downtown Youngstown when excited kids from elementary and junior-senior high school, receive the book bags packed with school supplies such as binders, folders, pencils, erasers, glue sticks, index cards and other items needed for their first day of school.

“When we see not only children, but parents, get excited, you know the book bags and their contents are appreciated,” said the Rev. Rafael Cruz, pastor of Unity Baptist Church.

“Some of the families are struggling financially and the book bags and school supplies are a big help,” the Rev. Mr. Cruz said.

Saturday’s book bag event is a joint project of NOW Youngstown, an interfaith outreach effort to promote peace in the city; Community Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV) and Youngstown City Schools, which provides the school supplies and the tents. The churches provide the book bags, refreshments, music and games.

Saturday’s activities at the Covelli Centre includes a 3-on-3 basketball tournament and several speakers.

Read more about the event in Wednesday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.