PFMC volunteers have generously donated their time, groceries, and money to make our "Snack Pack Pals" ministry to Woodland Elementary School a success during the 2011-2012 school year.  This community outreach sponsored by the SON Team gives our congregation an opportunity for service in Jesus' name.  We are very appreciative of the great response from our congregation to make this ministry a blessing to many people.  Approximately 90 PFMC volunteers (generally 4-6 per week) helped pack and deliver Friday Snack Packs to 20 children, for 30 school weeks.  A total of 600 backpacks will have been filled by the end of this school year, consisting of a total of 10,200 items.  Among our volunteers were groups from Awana and the Middle School youth, each of whom helped pack the Snack Packs once per month.  In addition, 15 eager Cub Scouts from Haverhill School helped pack the Snack Packs and donated food items one evening.

Each week 17 nutritious, varied food items were provided to each of the 20 children.  The neediest children were chosen by the Woodland staff, from those who qualified for the Federal Free or Reduced School Lunch program.  Each recipient family signed a permission slip.  Our volunteers provided a special treat and spiritual message each month, to coincide with holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter).   In addition, for each child's birthday we gave a cake mix, icing, cupcake papers, and personalized birthday card (handmade by a PFMC volunteer).  We also provided hygiene items twice to each child; this included a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and lotion.   Teachers and staff were also given a special treat about once per month.  Parents, children, and staff were very appreciative of the ministry.  It has also opened up other opportunities to reach out to the Woodland Elementary School families.  We hope to continue it in the next school year.