Being equipped with the proper tools is always the first step for success in school, and for hundreds of children throughout Polk County that first step has already begun thanks to Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry (TBOM). On Saturday, Aug. 6 TBOM along with many volunteers, collected applications and delivered backpacks, pencils, paper, markers, crayons, notebooks, rulers and much more to children in need from the Polk County area.
“During these difficult economic times, many families are struggling just to meet the basic necessities of food, clothing and shelter,” stated Michelle Reedy, client services coordinator for TBOM. “As such, education may become less important in their daily budget due to other immediate needs.  However, this program allows us to concentrate on providing the tools for academic success and also helps to encourage confidence within the child.”
Thanks to the Polk County High School staff and Bill Miller, school superintendent, the cafeteria was made available to TBOM as a distribution center to accommodate the children, parents, partner organizations and volunteers. Beginning at 11 a.m., families and their children started pouring into the cafeteria to receive school supplies for the upcoming school year.  By the end of the distribution, 259 children representing pre-k through twelfth grade had been outfitted with the necessary tools for school. The distribution and the need did not end on this day.
Reedy explained, “Due to increased demand, TBOM is continuing to accept applications for children who need help with school supplies. In addition, TBOM has established a school supply closet program that is located at each Polk County School for those children who may need access to these supplies throughout the year.”
“Of course, none of this could be accomplished without the contributions of so many,” stated Jason Eller, Director of Development for TBOM. “It is through the generosity of businesses, churches, partner organizations, individuals and families who contributed their time, energy and finances that made this so successful for children in need. Thank you all for making a difference.”
Donations of school supplies are collected throughout the year. For more information regarding this program or others within TBOM contact 828-894-2988.
TBOM wishes to acknowledge and thank their partner organizations that provided services at this year’s school supply distribution: Collins Dental Clinic, handed out over 100 tooth brushes and tubes of tooth paste; Saluda Medical: provided information on sliding scale costs and prescription assistance for uninsured families/individuals; Safe Link: provided information on free cell phones through the food stamp program; Community Health Connections: provided free eye screenings to 100 children and referral resources for those in need of further eye care.
– article submitted by Jason Eller