Outreach Program Helps Area Kids

Outreach Program Helps Area Kids

Thanks to the efforts of a caring individuals in the University community, kids in the neighborhoods around Saint Louis University will be able to go back to school with the items they need.

The "Pack 'em Back to School" project, sponsored and organized by the University's Family Development Center, aims to provide necessary school supplies, clothing and free immunizations for low-income children near the University's campuses.

There are several ways that faculty, staff members and departments can take part in this project:

By individually sponsoring a child. The expenses can range from $50 to $75, depending on the age of the child.
Joining other offices or departments as a group project. Several employees have brought clothing, shoes and school supplies to the offices and departments. The donations may benefit one child or several children.
Cash donations. Checks may be written out to SLU/"Pack 'em Back to School" project and sent to Mary Schmelter, program director, Family Development Center, room 116 of McGannon Hall on the Frost campus.

"By sponsoring a child, you will provide him or her with not only school supplies, new clothing and shoes for the start of the new school year, but you will be telling these children that you care about them and that education is very important in their lives," Schmelter said.

Members of the University community are encouraged to volunteer, and individuals or group members who sponsor a child will receive a picture and application form. All sponsors will be asked to have their backpacks with clothing, shoes and school supplies dropped off at the campus ministry office on each area campus.

The three target areas are the Blumeyer Public Housing Complex, close to the Frost campus; Wyman Elementary School, near the Health Sciences Center; and the Griffin Center in East St. Louis.

For more information, call Schmelter at 977-2505.

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