Upper Darby Church Distributes 900 Backpacks in Community Event with Food and Clothing Support

In a heartening display of community service, Bread of Life Assembly of God Church in Upper Darby recently hosted its fifth annual Free School Backpack Giveaway/Community Fun Day at Sellers Park. The event, which took place on a Saturday afternoon, was marked by a festival-like atmosphere complete with musical performances, games, inflatables, and freebies such as popcorn, pretzels, and water ice. Approximately 70 church volunteers, along with members of the Upper Darby High School football team, worked together to distribute over 900 fully packed backpacks to community members.

The Rev. Thomas Keinath, lead pastor of Bread of Life Assembly, emphasized that the church fully underwrites the event, viewing it as a gift to the community. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the church to serve the community, which includes monthly visits to 69th Street to distribute food and clothing and a food pantry open every second Saturday of the month.

David Oduwole, associate pastor, highlighted the event as an opportunity to connect with people and demonstrate God’s love. “We have the opportunity to connect with them and represent Christ to them and make them feel welcome,” he remarked. The church’s mission, as articulated by Roxanne Manjal, is to serve the community and show Christ’s love through practical acts of kindness.

The event also provided a unique opportunity for community members to engage with the church beyond the traditional Sunday services. “A lot of people don’t get a chance to see the church other than Sunday,” noted one volunteer, underscoring the importance of such outreach efforts.

Joseph Sarjoo, a church leader in charge of evangelism, mentioned that the church aims to increase the number of backpacks distributed each year. These backpacks are fully loaded with essential school supplies, including notebooks, folders, index cards, pencils, and crayons, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the school year.

The event was particularly meaningful for families, especially those with low incomes. One attendee expressed gratitude, noting that the event was her first experience with the giveaway and found it extremely helpful. The sense of community and joy was palpable, with one volunteer likening the atmosphere to a preview of heaven, where people of all backgrounds come together in harmony and fellowship.

This initiative reflects the biblical call to serve others, as seen in passages like Matthew 25:35, which speaks of feeding the hungry and welcoming strangers. Through such acts of service, Bread of Life Assembly of God Church exemplifies living out the principles of love, mercy, and community support.

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