By Meghan McCormick
Buying a child school supplies may be no big deal for one family, but for another it may be impossible.
The Streams of Water Ministry at Alameda Church of Christ want all children to have the necessary materials needed to begin school year. And for a fourth year, the ministry will host the "Back-to-School Roundup and Information Fair" 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 9
Deacon John Helton said the ministry team has formed food pantries and clothing closets, but wanted to build more community support.
"Our committee had the idea 'How can we help the community?'" Helton said.
Last year, more than 1,200 people turned out to the fair, he said.
"We gave out 551 backpacks," Helton said.
He said each child will be able to receive a free backpack with school supplies. However, children must be present to receive the materials.
Most supplies have been purchased from donations, Helton said. The Norman Community Foundation gave the ministry $500 to purchase backpacks, notebooks and paper.
Helton said kids also can pickup bicycle helmets, hats, scarves and gloves. Hair stylists will be there to give children free hair cuts.
Lunch also will be provided. Kids can participate in carnival games, face painting, and put their names in for door prizes, Helton said.
Officers from the Norman Police Department will be at the event to fingerprint and take pictures of children for identification kits, Helton said. Representatives from YMCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boy Scouts Troop 777 and Bicycle League of Norman also will set up information booths.
"We try to get various social service agencies to get information out to families" Helton said.
He said Registration will be 9 a.m. Aug. 9 or can be done online at www.alameda-streams.org. There is no income eligibility requirements.
"It's basically open to anyone who needs help with school supplies," Helton said.
He said the church will accept donated materials. People are welcome to drop off donations at the church.
For more information, call Alameda Church of Christ at 321-0788.
Meghan McCormick 366-3539 mmccormick@normantranscript.com
