For Hometown News
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY - Thanks to the efforts of the Christians Clothing Children, a ministry of Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church, back-to-school clothing and supplies were provided to the school-age children at the Homeless Family Center.
This is the fourth year the CCC team, led by Kathie Althoff and members Dave Althoff, Nancy Briggs, Barbara and Jim Brumbaugh, Don Combs, Kathy Dunlop, Marian Farabee, Wendy Fisher, Joan Glad, Carol Martin, Jessica Martin, Stephanie Moreland, Gail Rodgers, Jaoanie Schultz, Linda Scott, Betty Sorensen, Barbara Stewart, Cookie Thompson, Cynthia Wardwell and Ellen Williamson, shopped for individual children.
Each CCC member was given a list of specific sizes needed, the child's favorite color and a special toy request.
The supplies were delivered to the excited and enthusiastic children at the center on Aug. 9.
Each child, ranging in age from 4 to 17, received a large personalized bin full of back-to-school essentials such as school pants, polo shirts, play outfits, pajamas, socks and underwear.
In addition, the children were given basic toiletry items such as deodorant, shampoo, a toothbrush, toothpaste, tissues and other personal hygiene articles.
The team also prepared and served dinner, all cooked with tender loving care for all the families at HFC.
The Rev. Cliff V. Melvin, pastor of Christ by the Sea and June Traylor, director of ministries, were on hand to help with presenting the bins to each child and serving dinner.
The Homeless Family Center is a nonprofit organization committed to changing lives one family at a time. The center, which is located at 720 Fourth St. in Vero Beach, is a partner agency of United Way, Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council and the Indian River County Children's Services Advisory Committee.
To learn more about the Homeless Family Center, call (772) 567-5537, stop by for a Wednesday walk tour every Wednesday at 4 p.m. or visit www.HomelessFamilyCenter.com.