First Baptist Church (FBC) of Salisbury invites the community to their second annual Back to School Community Bash on August 26. Executive Pastor Reverend Kenneth L. Watson, who has organized this event, says, “it’s just a big family day event and everything is free.” The church will be providing clothing, toiletries, music, fun, and more.
The bash will be held in the parking lot of FBC located at 528 Booth Street and Delaware Avenue in Salisbury from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. School uniforms and undergarments will be provided at no cost for children in pre-k through fifth grade on a first-come, first-served basis. Other giveaways include toiletries, basic boy haircuts, basic girls’ hair care information, and lunch.
FBC will be preparing food for the event to serve through the day’s activities. Local artists will be performing live music while vendors and organizations set up to provide resources and fun. Local law enforcement will be a presence at the event to develop community relations with locals and the fire department will be bringing out a firetruck.
Watson shares about FBC; “We feel we’re extremely mission-oriented. What good are we in the building if we’re not making a difference outside in our community? We believe in spreading the love and meeting the needs of people where they are.”
The day of fun and community outreach began last year with Watson observing a spring clothing drive and giveaway. He saw mostly children’s clothing running out and being asked after. “The idea was birthed from providing assistance for those in our community that needed help preparing for the first day of school.” He realized, if there were so many children needing clothing for everyday wear, there had to be a need for school clothing.
When he put the idea into motion with the help of volunteers and sponsors, he says around 500 people showed up to the event. From the turnout, they gave away over 200 school uniforms and more than 50 haircuts. All of this was not to be done alone last year or this year, and Watson emphasizes supportive sponsorships from Walmart, Perdue, Pepsi, and Perry & Gate’s Barber Shop. Any agencies or individuals interested in providing sponsorship or volunteer support can contact FBC at 410-548-5486.
The church has roots dating back to 1874 and has gone through many moves, leadership, and other changes over the years. Its current inception began in 1994 and follows the mission that led to community outreach like this event.
First Baptist Church is committed to spreading the Gospel and carrying out the Great Commission by providing ministries to meet the needs of the total man with the mind of Christ. They are dedicated in serving the church and community to assure stability for today and security for tomorrow.
