Mother of Light Center in Alexandria welcomed families Aug. 10 for its annual backpack giveaway and community day as part of its ongoing Read and Shine efforts. The event offered school supplies and community connection, joy, and blessings for the year ahead.
Father Paul A. Berghout, in residence at St. Rita Church in Alexandria, gave a special blessing to the children and their backpacks, asking God’s guidance and protection for the school year. Volunteers guided families through grade-level stations, ensuring each child received a backpack filled with age-appropriate school supplies. In total, 250 backpacks were distributed to children from the community.
The day also celebrated the launch of the center’s new Little Library — created by children during the nonprofit’s summer camp — where kids may swap books and enjoy a creative play area. Alexandria-based nonprofit InspireLit provided additional books for children to take home.
The City of Alexandria’s Mobile Art Van engaged children in bookmark-making, while snacks, water, sports drinks, and popsicles kept everyone refreshed.
“This day is about more than backpacks,” said volunteer Lourdes Hermoso. “It’s about letting families know they are seen, supported and loved.”
Find out more
Go to motheroflightcenter.com.
