outreach

Backpack Ministry

The Backpack Ministry is a structured city wide, state wide and nationwide program.

As part of this community-wide program, local churches and organizations partner with a specific school to help support students in need. St. James is proud to serve Niblack Elementary School through this ministry.

Students are identified through established school guidelines, and participation is coordinated confidentially through the school counselor with parent or guardian permission.

Why is this ministry needed?

There are hundreds of children in Columbia County facing homelessness and food insecurity. While every family’s situation is different, the reality remains the same: children should never have to wonder where their next meal will come from. Through this ministry, we seek to offer care, nourishment, and hope to those who need it most.

As members of St. James Episcopal Church, we are called to be a community of compassion, service, and care. Through the many ministries of our church, we seek to love our neighbors as Christ loves us and to serve the world as His hands and feet. The Backpack Ministry is one meaningful way we live out that calling by caring for the children in our community and helping ensure that no child is forgotten or left in need.

As Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me” — Matthew 19:14.

how you can help

Text "GIVESJEC" to 73256 to give using your mobile device. This number will never send unsolicited texts to you. To cancel further messages, text STOP. If you need assistance with text giving, text HELP. Standard text message and data rates may apply.