Nearly 100 children in four Alabaster city schools returned to classes last fall with new clothes and shoes thanks to the Clothing for Champions ministry led by Michelle Weaver, community ministries director for First Baptist Church, Alabaster.
Weaver, who’s served on the church staff for a decade, said she’d seen over the years how parents came to the church’s clothing bank in June or July needing clothes for the upcoming school term.
“Our clothing ministry is relatively small, and the donations we receive are somewhat sporadic, so I began praying about something else we might do,” she said.
Weaver said she knew purchasing new clothes and shoes would probably amount to $75 to $100 per child, and the need seemed overwhelming.
But her prayer partners challenged her to press forward, so she contacted area churches last spring. Two churches — Siluria Baptist and Evangel Presbyterian — got on board.
With the help of guidance counselors at Alabaster City Schools, Weaver compiled a list of families who might be open to assistance.
Weaver said the name of the ministry was inspired by the athletic teams at Thompson High School in Alabaster, which are known as the Warriors.
“We knew that wearing hand-me-downs subjected some children to ridicule and bullying,” she said. “Wearing a new outfit gives children an extra boost of confidence. … We wanted them to believe they were champions and to shine on the first day of school.”
Weaver said many of the families served have limited income, and several were from homes with single parents.
John, a single grandparent, said the program helped him and his 10-year-old grandson, of whom John has full custody.
“I lost my job and it’s been tough,” he said. “Fortunately I do start a new job this month. The clothing program was a great help for me and my grandson last fall. New clothes are a blessing and he was excited to get them. God met our needs and He used some friends in the community to help us.”
Weaver said her volunteers also made families aware of other resources available in the community offering assistance for various needs.
“In this way we believe we were able to offer help beyond the first day of school.”
Weaver said she foresees the ministry growing and perhaps doubling in 2016.
“We didn’t even target Shelby County Schools, but the needs are there too,” she said. “Perhaps with more volunteers we can assign one church to a particular school. I’m excited to think about what God will do with this ministry.”
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