The Gerry Free Methodist Church donated 75 backpacks to G.A. Family Services Foster Care, Accountability and Responsibility, and Adoptive Programs prior to the new school year.

During a recent outreach project, pastors David McCarthy and Larry Petry, along with the members of the church, facilitated the service project for a second year. Last year the church donated approximately 40 backpacks, making this year’s donation nearly double. Gerry Free Methodist Church is highly motivated to assist local organizations with service projects while recognizing area agencies for their support of youth and families in the local communities. This donation has assisted with children during their transition from summer vacation to school, with many children often transitioning into new schools.

“Our program greatly appreciates the ongoing support and advocacy from the Free Methodist Church and other community organizations. I was thrilled to be able to partner with them for another year of successful backpack giveaways. Being able to work together with youth and families is extremely rewarding and impactful to our agency and those we serve,” said Amanda Christy, family resource coordinator for GA Family Services Foster Care Program.

Post-adoptive caseworkers Beth Lanphere and Leslie Dole were also able to assist with backpack distribution along with back-to-school haircuts at Salon One in Jamestown.

“The opportunity to partner with Salon One and their incredible staff was customer service next to none. From the moment our families entered the salon, they felt at home with the service and atmosphere. Each child was given the option to have new haircut for the school year and also receive a backpack from the Gerry Free Methodist Church,” said Beth Lanphere.

GA Family Services sincerely thanks the Gerry Free Methodist Church and Salon One for their ongoing support and extreme generosity for the families in G.A. programs.

For those interested in learning more about programs G.A. Family Services offers, or ways to assist the children and families in these programs, contact Amanda Christy at 708-6161 or through email at achristy@lutheran-jamestown.org, or visit gafamilyservices.com. The organization can also be found on Facebook, where it shares information on local events, agency updates and ways you to support families and youth in the community.