Backpack giveaway for local youth in Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Black Firefighters Association and Principles of Doctrine of Christ Ministries are hosting a backpack giveaway this Saturday to support local youth.

The event, now in its fifth year, was initiated in response to a tragic incident in 2021 when a 12-year-old boy was killed while playing video games at his grandmother’s house. The organizers aim to provide both school supplies and spiritual support to children in the community.

“We wanted to pray for the youth, pray for their protection,” Deborah Cooley of PDOC Ministries said. “Because they do need the supplies, but you do need prayer to get through this life.”

The giveaway event will feature backpacks tailored to different age groups, ensuring that children from elementary to high school have appropriate supplies.

“The supplies this year are the same for each age group, but the backpack sizes vary,” Cooley explained. In addition to the backpack distribution, a bookmobile from the Indianapolis Public Library will be present, allowing children to select books of their choice.

This initiative aims to encourage reading and provide children with autonomy in their learning. The Indianapolis Black Firefighters Association will also participate by offering tours of a fire truck, adding an educational and interactive element to the event.

Cory Floyd, President of the IBFA, emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing societal issues.

The backpack giveaway represents a collaborative effort to address both educational and spiritual needs within the community, with organizers encouraging early attendance due to the event’s first-come, first-served nature.

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