LIMA — The Lima NAACP is set to help with what they consider a great need by providing school book bags loaded with school supplies from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday.
NAACP Education Coordinator Carol Fails said the need could be especially bigger this year.
“The Salvation Army is not doing it this year so we expect there will be an even bigger need,” Fails said.
Fails said as a former educator in Lima, she noticed the large number of children who came to school the first day without adequate supplies.
“As members of the NAACP, we are mandated by our charter to help these children and families out,” Fails said.
NAACP President Ron Fails said while it may not seem like a huge concern, it can threaten the learning atmosphere for children.
“Imagine going to school your first day without having paper or supplies,” Ron Fails said. “It can be devastating. To an adult, we have learned the ways a little bit, but to a child, it can be something major. Education is paramount for all of our children to have the same chance to succeed.”
Carol Fails said the book bags will include pencils, paper, crayons, rulers, scissors and facial tissues. The bags will be available to any schoolchildren in the Lima community.
The book bag giveaway is being held in conjunction with the Grace Worldwide Ministries church picnic. So in addition to getting school supplies, visitors will have a chance to get free food and play games.
