The members of First Presbyterian Church of Monticello, Arkansas surveyed their community before they received the Pentecost Offering. They looked for an urgent need that they might be able to address regardless of the amount received by the Offering.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) told them that children who came into the Foster Care program often came with little or nothing in the way of personal belongings, and what they did bring was often in plastic grocery bags. The DHS suggested giving these children something new of their own, such as a gym bag or backpack.

In anticipation of the Offering, members of First Presbyterian contributed personal care items to be included in the gym bags. Members of the Witness Committee filled fifteen one-gallon plastic bags with toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, bath soap, soap holders, deodorant, tissues, comb, brush, razors, and shaving cream.

With proceeds from the Offering, First Presbyterian bought fifteen gym bags and put a personal care bag in each. They were delivered to DHS and were appreciatively received.

Members of First Presbyterian are considering making this an ongoing mission because they believe it provides an important service to children at risk. It is one small way to let these children know that people care about them.

Carmen D. Leonard
For the Witness Committee
First Presbyterian Church
Monticello, Arkansas