With the focus for many parents in Lenoir County toward getting children prepared for school on Monday, The Gate wanted to make the job easier.
The community development center recently held its fifth annual Back to School Bash at its building on East Gordon Street, giving 384 children school supplies for the upcoming year of classes.
“There’s a need when it comes to the expenses of supplies,” Executive Director Wanda Hall said. “While there are other organizations doing events as well, all additional help can be used, especially with some parents having to care for multiple children.”
St. Mary’s Episcopal Church played a big role in the event, as members handed out hot dogs and drinks to those in attendance. Rev. Michael Singer said the church has volunteered with The Gate each year of the event and averages packing and donating 350 bag lunches each year.
“The event is important because we want to be supportive of the children and those going back to school,” Singer said. “The Gate has a great program, and we want the children to know they are loved and appreciated as they go into a new school year.”
Kinston Public Services has also made contributions each year for The Gate.
“We always try to get supplies to hand out for the event each year,” KPS Information and Resources Specialist Sheri Williams said.
KPS Director Rhonda Barwick added, “Kinston Public Services is proud to play a small part in preparing the kids for a successful school year.”
The Gate is a Christian-based, nonprofit organization that has been in operation since 2008. Services provided include bible study, GED classes and inspirational conferences. According to its brochure, the strategic vision is to “provide exceptional facilities, faith-based counseling and educational opportunities that will counter cultures of violence, hopelessness, neglect, poverty and abuse with the hope that is found in Jesus Christ.”
Hall said the event was a very good way to network and show what The Gate was about, while helping hundreds of students.
“Since we had the Back to School Bash, attendance has increased by about 15 percent,” Hall said. “This was a great opportunity to not only help people in the community, but have one-on-ones with parents and tell people about what we do here at The Gate.”
Junious Smith III can be reached at 252-559-1077 and Junious.Smith@Kinston.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JuniousSmithIII.
