Cannon United Methodist Church Sends Backpacks with Blessings

For more than 20 years, Gwinnett DFCS has been putting together back packs and school supplies for children in foster care and indigent child protective services families. Collecting supplies for elementary-aged children and completely filled backpacks for middle and high school children, case workers began delivery this week. 

in Snellville has been involved with the program for at least 15 of those 20 years. According to Beth Garvin, who has been the coordinator at Cannon since 2009, collection usually begins in late June and then throughout July. Supplies are collected according to a list provided by Gwinnett County DFCS throughout the campaign.

On Sunday, July 22, all the bins and bags were placed at the chancel rail around the altar area throughout the three services. Led by Rev. Carolyn Stephens, the congregation said individual prayers for the students who will receive them. On Monday, the bags, supplies and monetary donations were delivered to the National Guard Armory in Lawrenceville.

Garvin says that last year, Cannon collected 162 bookbags along with $1,600 for additional school supplies. Though the total for donations is still being counted, this year they delivered 179 bags and over 1,300 supplies.

Kim Crawford, Volunteer Resource Coordinator with Gwinnett DFCS says that even with the generous gifts from Cannon UMC, this year, for the first time, supplies have come up short for the need.

They welcome additional supplies or donations; donations may be made at the National Guard Armory at 261 E. Crogan Street in Lawrenceville until 2:00 p.m. on Friday. After that donations may be made at the Gwinnett DFCS offices at 446 W. Crogan Street (4th Floor) in Lawrenceville.