At BridgePointe, we pray for God to give us one person to share his love with. This past weekend, God sent hundreds! On Saturday August 15th, BridgePointe hosted one of our largest outreach events of the year. With over 140 volunteers from BridgePointe and in partnership with nine local businesses and organizations*, we welcomed hundreds of families to receive free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, dental and eye screenings, pancake breakfast, and some fun and games. As we opened doors to students from five local elementary schools, we prayed this demonstration of kindness would bring hope to our community.

A second grade teacher from Orlo Ave. Elementary said, “I find myself spending thousands of dollars a year supplementing materials in my classroom. I am in awe of how many materials were donated. I know many of my students get a bit sad when they see the school supplies other students bring in. This year I am sure there will be smiles all around.”

Throughout the event, we heard stories of families who were unable to purchase the needed school supplies for the year. Thank you’s were everywhere and many times tears were present.

Parents expressed gratitude not only for supplies, but for the kindness they experienced that day. Families talked about how friendly and enthusiastic the volunteers were. Great conversations were shared and friendships were formed. More than supplies, families experienced a church and a community that cares for them deeply.

For us as a church, the Back to School Fair was a great opportunity to show God’s love to people by caring for them and serving with them. Join me in praying that God would continue to give us one more person to share His love with, and that more in our community would come to find hope in Jesus.

Better Together,

JOSH PEZOLD
Connections & Outreach Pastor

Watch a video of WPRI's coverage of the event on their website.

*Special thanks to 2015 event sponsors:

Accurate Focus
Atlantic Paper & Supply
Dare to Dream Camp
EPPC
London Health Adminstrators
Milestones Pediatric Dentistry
Nordson EFD
Rotary Club of East Providence RI / Seekonk MA
Sport Clips Haircuts
The Children’s Workshop
The Home Depot
Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy
Vision Care at the Brown Center
Walmart