Masked Heroes Provide Masks for Kids Going Back To School
The start of the new school year is imminent, and communities across the United States are all tackling the same issue of continuing education while also prioritizing safety. The Salvation Army is no stranger to the challenges that many families face under normal conditions when sending children to school, which is why we hold annual back-to-school events to provide kids with backpacks and other essential supplies. With COVID-19 adding even more stress and safety concerns, we decided to start Project Protect: Operation Back-to-School to further help students as they transition back to the classroom.
Pictured above: Janet Ernst of St. David's Episcopal Church displays handmade, reusable masks
When The Salvation Army put word out about Project Protect, St. David's Episcopal Church immediately jumped in to help. The parish's Newcomer's Outreach Group had previously volunteered for The Salvation Army in coronavirus-related efforts such as writing notes of encouragement to front-line workers and Handbags for Hope, and they approached this new project with the enthusiasm and heart that we have come to know them by.
Thanks to St. David's, The Salvation Army will be able to provide 250 reusable masks to students in metro Detroit. We are so grateful to have friends in the community who are willing to step up to help our neighbors in need!
If you are looking for a way to volunteer and help school age children in need, the need for masks and hygiene items is great. We are looking for volunteers to make or purchase masks, tissues, and hand soap for children in metro Detroit area schools. These items must be turned in by Thursday, August 14, 2020. They can be dropped off at The Salvation Army Division Headquarters on 16130 Northland Drive, Southfield, MI 48075. There will be an outside drop box under the red covered awning entrance at the back of the building. If other drop off arrangements need to be made, or if you have any questions, please contact barbara.pilat@usc.salvationarmy.org or call (248) 443-5500.