First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale's Children's Ministry "Back to School" Mission Project Collects Hundreds of Filled Backpacks for Local Students

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 5, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Each year, the Children's Ministry at the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale embarks on a "Back to School" mission project to collect and fill backpacks for local students who might not be able to afford them on their own. On Sunday, August 3, 2014, the four-week effort concluded with 300 backpacks filled- almost 200 more than they had collected in the previous year! 

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"Our Children's Ministry is thankful to all who made their mission a success by donating," said Dr. Russell Ritchel Jr., pastor, "and they are excited that their work will put smiles on the faces of many of the children in our community."

An additional activity will be for the children in Vacation Bible School to bring each backpack into compliance with the school district's recommended supplies list. The filled backpacks will then be supplied to local community organizations including: Hope South Florida, The Pantry of Broward, Lauderhill Point, Angel Tree and Women in Distress. Any remaining backpacks will be distributed to students at Fort Lauderdale-area schools.

"It is rewarding to see the children be a part of the mission of providing service to the community," said Ritchel, "and we endeavor to continue to find new opportunities to serve our community and make these principles a part of our life together as a church."

First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale's backpack mission project was orchestrated through the Children's Ministry. In addition to the Children's Ministry, First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale offers numerous other ministries to serve youth, young adults, adults and seniors. To connect with one of the ministries at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale visit www.firstpres.cc.

About First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale

Founded in 1912, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale is located on the banks of the New River in the historic Colee Hammock neighborhood in downtown Ft. Lauderdale. With more than 1,800 members, and a strong core of volunteers, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale prides itself on offering something for everyone, regardless of age. Since 1947, First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale has operated Happyland Day School, a pre-school for ages two to Kindergarten that provides a quality Christian environment for children. Adult, youth and children choirs as well as youth and adult groups offer ample opportunities for fellowship at any age. An Adult Activity Center is open to senior adults ages 55 and up and features weekly lunches, entertainment and monthly bus trips. First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale offers two regular Sunday worship services as well as special worship services held throughout the year to commemorate significant days. For more information, please visit www.firstpres.cc or call (954)462-6200.

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SOURCE First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale