Mt Zion AME Church will be hosting a back-to-school giveaway to assist families in preparing their students for the new academic year. Jahkimmo Smith, pastor at Mt Zion, is excited to host this event along side his membership. “Our goal for this initiative was to bless at least 100 students with backpacks filled with school supplies or with a voucher that would go towards a part of their school uniform.“To that end, I put out an appeal to our membership and they responded tremendously. Because of their generosity, we will be able to meet our goal of giving away 100 backpacks filled with supplies and 33 vouchers to Boyles.Mr Smith added: “This represents $6,500 worth of school-related supplies.”The inspiration behind the back-to-school initiative is rooted in the vision and mission of Mt Zion and a desire to live out their beliefs in a tangible way, Pastor Smith said. “Many families in our community were struggling pre Covid-19 and the pandemic has exasperated that reality,” he explained. “As a church, we wanted to do the best we could with what we have and do our part to meet some need that would help to ease the anxiety felt by many in our community.“To that end, we join the efforts of many individuals, companies, charities and churches in our community who are also doing their level best to make a difference, during these difficult and uncertain times.”The supplies will be distributed on Sunday, August 30 at Mt Zion’s “Praise In The Park” Community Drive-In Worship Service, which will take place at 10am at Death Valley Park in Southampton.All recipients have been contacted in advance with details for collection. “Our vision is to be a growing and empowered church whose members work together to lead lasting and positive change by connecting people to God and each other.” Mr Smith added: “At Mt Zion we believe that anybody can become a new person in Jesus Christ.“We believe that no matter where you’ve been or where you are presently on your life’s journey, God still has an incredible plan and purpose for your life and wants to use you for His Glory.“At Mt Zion you will find a community of faith where you will be welcomed and loved.”