Project Apple Tree serving more students than ever

Sunday, 05 August 2012 by Ashley Corn

Kay Ratliff and Gloria Gladis volunteer their time each morning for Project Apple Tree in the home of Jeanette Kelley in preparation for Distribution Day on Aug. 20.So far, more than 13,025 children and counting are being sponsored by Project Apple Tree in their 12th year of service.

Project Apple Tree has more than 3,000 volunteers and is an organization through Helping Hands that helps BISD children from grades pre-k up to seniors in high school who meet the criteria, receive essential school supplies, a backpack, clothing, a hygiene kit, and even the opportunity to receive a free haircut from professional hairstylists for a new back to school look. About 30 local churches are involved this year.

"We want all of the kids to go back to school with all the necessary things they need to be successful throughout the year, and to feel good about themselves," Jeanette Kelley, Project Apple Tree coordinator said.

More than $100,000 dollars has been raised and that number is still going up.

Last year 15,051 kids were helped, and the number goes up every year.

"I am very passionate about this project," Kelley said. "I've been a part of it for 12 years and what can I say? It's truly a blessing for these kids."

Project Apple Tree is based out of the UMHB Baptist Student Ministry building located at the corner of 4th Street and Pearl Street.

You will have the chance to pick the child you wish to sponsor. A minimum of $35 is asked to be given as a donation.

"We don't ask for money," Kelley said. "What we want is for the people to donate by their own will. To reach out and help these kids."

Registration ends Thursday at 5 p.m.

Aug. 20 will be the distribution day for all of the sponsored children and young adults.

If you would like more information on Project Apple Tree, contact Jeanette Kelley at (254) 939-1162.

• < Prev
• Next >