MORE than 400 children from the Newlands and Naggo Head communities in St Catherine were feted last Friday when Emmanuel Apostolic Church in Portmore hosted its annual back-to-school treat.

Students who attend the church were also among the beneficiaries.

According to youth chairman, Minister Nicholas Matthews, more than $500,000 in scholarships and school supplies were given to students.

“We distributed over 200 stationery packages, more than 300 bags with school supplies and snacks, textbooks and notebooks, as well as 13 scholarships in excess of $200,000,” he is quoted in a release.

The release said the church raised $500,000 for the event and also secured sponsorship in cash and kind.

Pastor for the church, Bishop Everton Thomas, explained that the event is an annual outreach programme which has significantly impacted the surrounding communities. He also congratulated the planning committee and thanked the sponsors for continually supporting the event.

“There is no telling what impact this level of philanthropy will have on the lives of our youth. We hope to keep making the event a success and see it grow annually,” he said. “As a church we not only seek to disciple individuals, but also to provide welfare needs and guidance for wholesome development.”

He went on to add that far too many people have a view that nothing significant is being done by “the church”, and expressed how pleased he was that something positive was being done to improve and impact lives of people in Portmore.