Mission helps kids get ready for school

TAMPA - A lot of Bay Area parents took advantage of the tax free holiday on school supplies this last weekend.

The cost of buying all those backpacks, notebooks and folders can really add up. It's an expense some families can't even afford, so they go without.

The Good Samaritan Mission in Wimauma is reaching out to those families. More than 800 children showed up to their annual Back to School event.

"What we're trying to do is help as many families as we can," said Executive Director Rev. William Cruz.

The children come from families who are at or below the poverty level. Volunteers gave away backpacks, haircuts and dental, exams to kids who wouldn't get them otherwise.

"These kids would be in a heap of trouble when school starts, but we're trying to set them up so they can have a fresh start and a new beginning with as many resources as they need to have a really good school year," says Cruz.

Rev. Cruz says it's a boost to their self worth and a chance for the children to succeed. The Good Samaritan Mission has been supporting families for more than 26 years. It's a mission they hope to continue for many years to come.

"We're trying to be a good neighbor to those that are our neighbors, says Cruz.


For more information: http://www.gsmission.org/joomla/