FORT WAYNE – Holland Elementary School is making plans for a memorial to honor Aliahna Lemmon, who was killed shortly before Christmas.Even though school just let out, The Salvation Army is gearing up to send area children back prepared in the fall.
The organization kicked off its Tools for School program Thursday at Office Depot at Northcrest Shopping Center.
Officials are soliciting school supplies, book bags and new gym shoes at a number of locations to donate to needy children.
“The Salvation Army strives to alleviate the financial burden of families,” spokesman Timothy Smith said.
Other groups throughout northeast Indiana are also seeking donations to help needy students whose families’ finances have been taxed by the difficult economy.
Groups that serve Adams, DeKalb, Noble, Steuben and Whitley counties all said they expect increased requests from parents for school supplies this year, and some fear donations might fall short of covering that increased need.
Dan York, executive director of The Salvation Army of Adams County, said he hopes to help 240 students, up from 120 last year, but he admitted he expects not to meet that new goal because of decreased donations.
Pat Mossburg, community ministries specialist for The Salvation Army of Whitley County, said parents who are already struggling to pay for necessities such as food, utilities and housing might not have the cash to pay for the extensive school supplies their children require.
“I’m just hoping people will take the time to help some kids,” Mossburg said.
Last year, 1,076 children received school supplies through the drive, Smith said.
Families looking to apply to receive school supplies can submit applications from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. July 7 and 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 7 p.m. July 8.
They will need to provide photo identification, proof of income and expenses, and a Social Security card and birth certificate for all of their school-age children.
Mobile Dentists will provide free routine checkups for children on distribution days.
