Wayland Baptist Church continues support for students

Wayland Baptist Church opened its doors Saturday to almost 200 students in need of school supplies, just in time for the start of classes on Aug. 17.

Students and parents began lining up at about 11 a.m. The doors opened at noon and by 12:30 all of the supplies were gone.

The annual Back to School Bash took on a more festive atmosphere this year with students and parents being served barbecued hot dogs and chips.

An ice cream truck was parked in front of the church, a welcome sight on a day in which the temperature pushed double digits.

The McIntosh County Health Department was on hand in its mobile unit to vaccinate the children who needed immunization.

Inside the church there were bags of groceries for those in need.

And, of course, the everneeded school supplies and backpacks.

The need continues to grow as supplies become more expensive.

“Last year we served 150,” said Chinea Rockwell-Jones, who has coordinated the event for the past five years. “This year 200 backpacks were donated.”

Chinea began planning the bash in May. This year she was joined by her sister-in-law, Sharon McCoy.

“She was a great help this year,” Chinea said.

Dozens of volunteers joined Chinea and Sharon in making the event possible, as well as numerous contributors.

“We had about $4,000 in contributions this year, in money and supplies,” Chinea said.

Among the donors were J.C. and Frankie Watts; God’s Helping Hands, Work Ready Oklahoma, Bank of Eufaula and the Eufaula VFW.

“I want to give a shout-out to the VFW,” Chinea said. “They come every year, on the Thursday before the event, and fill the bags with supplies. This year they filled about 150 bags in 37 minutes. They’re always a great help.”

Chinea said she got involved in the event because she saw a need, which is why all of the volunteers participated.

“God put it in our hearts to do it,” she said.