As we approach the 2024-2025 school year, St. Matthew's Outreach Team has been busy starting our annual School Supply Drive to support the schools in Sterling, VA. This initiative is not just about providing pencils and notebooks; it’s about empowering young minds and offering them the tools they need to succeed.
The Need in Sterling
In Loudoun County, the threshold for serving schools as Title I is a 50% poverty rate. All Title I schools in Loudoun County, as confirmed by the Department of Instruction for LCPS in 2023, are located in Sterling, VA. These schools rely heavily on community support to meet the needs of their students.
Sharing God's Love
Our School Supply Drive is more than just a charitable effort; it is a manifestation of our faith and commitment to sharing God's love. The Bible teaches us that it isn’t about “giving back” to God. It’s about using what he’s given us to accomplish something that matters.
In 1 John 3:17–18, we are reminded, "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth."
How You Can Help
This year, we’ve received specific requests from Sterling area schools to ensure we fill their exact needs. Help us give these students what they need to succeed this school year!
Pray: Pray for Sterling area students, that they receive everything they need to have a great school year.
Purchase Supplies*: Drop off requested items before and after Sunday services, or during Tuesday/Thursday office hours (8 am - 4 pm).
Shopping List:
24-pack Crayola crayons
Composition notebooks
Dry erase markers
Elmer glue sticks
Headphones
Index cards
Large backpacks
Markers, any kind
Pencil boxes
Pencil pouches
Pencil sharpeners
Pencils
Reusable water bottles
Shaving cream for science experiments
Tissue boxes
Sponsor a Student: Make a financial gift of $30 online and note "Back to School Outreach 2024" in the memo.
Please drop off all donations by August 11, 2024.
Bring Hope This School Year
Your contributions will not only provide essential supplies but also bring hope and encouragement to young minds. Together, we can make a difference and fulfill our calling to care for those in need.
For more information, and see our donation tracker, visit stmtts.org/BackToSchool.
JOIN OUR OUTREACH TEAM
Are you interested in learning more about the programs St. Matthew's supports in our community?
Join our Outreach Coordinator, Kristin Drummond, this Sunday, August 4th, at 10:30 AM for our Fall Outreach meeting.
We'll be reviewing the exciting and busy Outreach calendar for the rest of the year. This is a great opportunity to get involved, share ideas, and make a difference in our community. Your participation and input are invaluable as we plan impactful events and initiatives together.
Questions? Contact Kristin at Kristin.Drummond@stmtts.org.
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