Equipping Children for a Hopeful Start: Back-to-School Drive

Every child deserves to begin the school year with confidence, prepared to learn and grow. Yet for many families, the cost of supplies, uniforms, and other necessities can feel overwhelming. At Center of Hope, we believe that no child should step into the classroom without the tools they need — and no parent should have to carry that burden alone.

In years past we have made joining the local community back to school drives a priority. Our focus on the local children at this critical milestone each year started in 2022 when we partnered with Hammond City Mayor Pete Panepintio and Hammond City Court Judge Britain Sledge for the annual Back-to-School Bash. We were honored to contribute financially to provide supplies and participate with volunteer service hours to hand out the backpacks. The smiles, the laughter, the look in our children’s eyes when you place those backpacks in their hands is part of our Why.

This back-to-school season, we were blessed to participate in a special drive that went beyond supplies. Families received backpacks filled with essentials, students were given school supplies, and children even received free haircuts to help them step into the new year with confidence. The smiles on their faces and the relief shown by parents were powerful reminders of why this outreach matters.

In addition to the drive, we are thankful to maintain a free school uniform rack at our Resale Shop. This ongoing resource ensures that families have security in knowing they can access uniforms for their children at no cost, whenever the need arises. For many parents, this simple act of provision means peace of mind and the ability to focus on their children’s growth rather than financial strain.

We are especially grateful for the partnerships that made this effort possible. Together with Revival Temple, Insideout Ministries, Center of Hope Resale Shop, and Helping Hands, we were able to meet the needs of our community in a tangible way. Each backpack given, each uniform provided, and each haircut offered was more than just a gift — it was a testimony of God’s love expressed through His people.

At Center of Hope, we are thankful to be part of this important milestone each year in our community. We believe that when the Body of Christ works together, we can ensure that every child starts the year knowing they are cared for, supported, and seen.