Schools
Program Fills Backpacks, Inspires Smiles
Local organization eases back-to-school transition for kids in need.
Today, Cherokee County children in need will get all the essentials to start the new school year on the right foot. Give a Kid a Chance, an event held at both and Cherokee Recreation Center in Woodstock, aims to help students help themselves toward a better education and better future.
From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., kids will receive all their back-to-school needs: backpacks filled with school supplies, socks, underwear, gently used clothing, haircuts, medical screenings and a lunch to enjoy with their families at the event.
Give a Kid a Chance is a combined effort of more than 40 churches, civic groups and businesses that work together to ensure local children are fully prepared for school. The annual events have served more than 10,000 students in Cherokee since 2006, according to giveakidachance.org.
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Cheryl Ruffer, co-director and one of the founders of Give a Kid a Chance, estimates that even though they currently have 2,500 students registered, they will be able to help many more. She encourages those who have not registered to come to either location at 2 p.m.
The organization began in 2006 when several members of were inspired by to begin their own endeavor to help kids in Cherokee County.
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Barbara Fulbright, co-director of Give a Kid a Chance, said she and Ruffer are encouraged by the 30 local churches of all denominations that are involved, having come together harmoniously to help kids—and parents—in need.
One mom on the organization’s website video said that she spent $600 for school supplies the previous year, so she appreciated all the help the organization gives. Give a Kid a Chance not only helps cash-strapped parents, but also gets kids excited to go back to class.
“The look on the kids’ faces when they get their new haircut or new backpack," Fulbright said, "there’s not much that can take the place of that."
Monetary contributions for the event are still being welcomed. For those who would like to make a purchased donation, Fulbright said they are in need of socks and underwear. Also, event coordinators are looking for clean-up assistance after the event.
If you would like to make a donation, apply to volunteer or register your child for Saturday’s event, visit the website for more information.
