Interfaith Assistance Ministry, Henderson County’s largest provider of crisis services, is seeking donations of school supplies and backpacks as its staff and volunteers prepare to launch the annual distribution of school supplies and new backpacks to children in need on Monday, July 29th.
To qualify to receive school supply assistance from IAM, a child’s parent must come to IAM for an interview. Proof of student enrollment at a Henderson County school is required or proof of residency in Henderson County — a report card, library card or school enrollment form. Last year, IAM helped more than 600 children with school supplies and/or backpacks.
IAM hopes to alleviate some of the financial hardships that parents face during the back to school season. A backpack and grade level supplies can easily cost $100 or more. When you factor multiple children in a family, the expense can create a dire financial situation for families already struggling to make ends meet.
“Thanks to the generosity of our community, IAM is blessed to help hundreds of Henderson County students with school supplies and backpacks every year,” said Elizabeth Willson Moss, IAM Executive Director. “Donations of school supplies, backpacks and financial donations enable IAM to help more students each year.”
Currently, 3-hole zippered pencil cases, highlighters, 2 inch binders and backpacks for 6th to 12th grade students are the school supplies most needed at IAM. IAM will hold its second annual Free Back-to-School Haircut Clinic on Saturday, August 24th from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. in IAM’s parking lot, 310 Freeman Street, Hendersonville. To qualify for a haircut, students must provide the same documentation and meet the same criteria needed to receive school supplies at IAM. To receive school supplies at the haircut clinic, a student’s parent or guardian will need to go through a quick interview. Last year with the help of generous local hairstylists and barbers, IAM provided 47 children with a haircut just in time for the new school year. Complimentary snow cones and snacks will be offered to students waiting for haircuts.
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