Volunteers with Clarkston Free Methodist Church and the community partnered with Renaissance High School, Monday, to help kids kick off the new school year.
“It’s something families need,” said Terry Porritt, para-educator at Renaissance High School and member of the church. “We’re serving our community and helping kids and their families. This is a way to give back to the community.”
Students received free haircuts, backpacks filled with school supplies, and pizza at Renaissance High, all supplied by volunteers and donations.
Julie Gravelle of Glitz asked friends and colleagues at work as well as local salons Great Clips and Sienna’s Salon for help.
“All it took was a phone call,” Gravelle said. “It’s a chance to get to know more people in the community.”
The program is in its fourth year, the first at the school ? 165 students were signed up on Monday, with another 70 on Wednesday. More than 250 backpacks with supplies were donated.
The church also hosts cider and donuts, Thanksgiving, and spring ice cream events at the school, as well as a mentoring program. Renaissance students volunteer with the church to offer community service.
“It’s a partnership,” Porritt said.
? Phil Custodio