North Philly church to host backpack giveaway

“Education, always has been, and always will be, the most effective way to combat adversity.”

—Novak Djokovic Foundation

Greater Enon Missionary Baptist Church in North Philadelphia is embracing those words and doing its part to advocate for peace by promoting education among youth and families. On Saturday, Aug. 27, from noon to 2 p.m., the church — in partnership with Temple University and the Philadelphia Police Department 22nd District — will host its 6^th Annual School Backpacks/School Supplies Giveaway.

Parents and guardians can bring their kids to receive free school backpacks stuffed with school supplies. In addition, the church will give a $500 donation to school officials of the Frederick Douglass Mastery Charter School, the neighborhood school resides directly across the street from the church.

“We know from volumes of independent research, that the more educated a community is, the less crime it experiences. The school backpacks and school supplies giveaway is our modest way of encouraging students to stay engaged in their education,” explains Rev. Michael Robinson, pastor of Greater Enon Missionary Baptist Church.

During the event, FedEx reps will be on hand to share information on job opportunities, and Temple University will share employment resource information for parents and guardians. There will be games, hot dogs, soda and more.

Greater Enon Missionary Baptist Church is located at 1854 N. 22nd Street.

To learn more about Saturday’s event and other community outreach initiatives, contact Rev. Robinson at revmikerobinson@gmail.com or 215-204-0677.