An estimated 800 students were able to receive backpacks and school supplies over the weekend thanks to the effort of Centralia resident Crystal Koch.
Lines to get supplies wound around the Calumet Street Christian Church on Saturday by those waiting to get inside. Koch says the huge turnout exceeded her goal. She was pleased with the day and the number of kids they were able to help.
This was the sixth year for the program that Koch started with the giveaway of just 40 backpacks.
Koch isn’t done yet. She says plans are underway for a coat giveaway at the end of October.
A DJ and a number of activities were underway in the gym of the Calumet Street Christian Church along with the backpack and school supply giveaway. Photo by Pat Hodges.
