News & Events
4th of July Celebrations!
4th of July meals were delivered to 80 families in District 3. Each package included all the essentials for a festive celebration, such as hot dogs, fixings, and holiday-themed plates, utensils, and napkins. Additionally, Hand in Hand sourced a semi-truck of fresh produce to accompany the celebration meals. With the dedicated assistance of District 3 bus drivers and social workers, these packages were successfully delivered to the families, ensuring a joyful and nourishing holiday.
First Presbyterian Church Vacation Bible School, 2024
Children attending 1st Presbyterian Church's Vacation Bible School engaged with the Hand in Hand ministry this summer. They contributed to the ministry's mission by bringing essential items for the Hand in Hand pantry. In addition to their donations, the children actively participated by organizing and stocking the food and supplies. This hands-on involvement not only supported the pantry but also fostered a sense of community and service among the young participants.
Melissa France receives the South Carolina Friend of Social Work Award
Melissa France and the Hand in Hand ministry received the Friend of Social Work Award from the South Carolina School Social Workers Association. As stated in the SCSSWA website, "Hand in Hand Community Ministry has been a moving force in improving the lives of students and families experiencing homelessness. Mrs. France started the program when she realized so many families were living in poverty and were not having their basic needs met. They have partnered with school districts to provide clothes, food, crockpots, mattresses, and other essentials for those experiencing homelessness and poverty in motels and throughout the community. Hand in Hand delivers necessities to families while also housing a pantry at a local church. Hand in Hand has been a tremendous asset in providing support to schools and families."
Jesse Boyd Field Day Fund Raiser
Hand in Hand partnered with Jesse Boyd Elementary School to offer a popsicle sale during Boyd's May field day event. The popsicle fund raiser was a great success, with all earnings going towards clothing and feeding the children we serve. Hand in Hand sends a giant thank you to the tremendous staff and students of Jesse Boyd Elementary School.
Appreciation Drop-In for Donors and Partners
On February 8th, 2024, Hand in Hand welcomed approximately 200 supporters to a special appreciation drop-in event. This gathering served as a meaningful occasion for Hand in Hand to express gratitude towards its donors, partners, and volunteers for their unwavering support and compassionate contributions to the ministry. Through their selfless dedication of personal time and resources, these individuals have empowered Hand in Hand to extend vital assistance to families facing profound hardships. The entire Hand in Hand team remains deeply grateful for the invaluable support of this ministry.
Thank You—Machine Solutions
Hand in Hand recently received a gift from Machine Solutions in Spartanburg. Because of their kindness and generosity, 20 children will have their Christmas wish come true this holiday season. For some of these children, this will be the first time they have ever received a Christmas gift. Machine Solutions also helped fill the Hand in Hand closet with much needed supplies for families in our community. What magical Christmas joy!
Fresh Produce Delivery
Thanks to the generous donation from the South Carolina REALTORS Leadership Academy 2023, Hand in Hand, in partnership with School District 3 and its team members, was able to provide & deliver fresh produce boxes filled with fruit and vegetables to 78 families without access otherwise this holiday season.
Hand in Hand is a fund within First Presbyterian Church Spartanburg which is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization. First Presbyterian Church is the fiscal agent for Hand in Hand.
Hand in Hand partners with school social workers to identify and support the highly individualized needs of families by providing new clothing for children, food and essential goods.
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