Stars Host LA Mission End Of Summer Charity Party

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:30:00 +0000

Children are the most tragic victims of homelessness. They often suffer the indignities of living out of a car or in temporary housing – longing for some normalcy. The Los Angeles Mission reaches out to the younger homeless population with its End of Summer Block Party, designed as a way for kids to play, have fun, win prizes and forget about their circumstances – if for only a day.

The End of Summer Block party was held Saturday on the main street of Skid Row, Fifth Street, where decorations, tents and inflatable play areas were set up. Besides the giant slide, there was a dunk tank, face painting, crafts, games and of course backpacks full of school supplies.

“There were smiles everywhere,” said Herb Smith, President of the Los Angeles Mission. “This was a great day, to see the kids and their parents having fun. Our volunteers really enjoy the Block Party because of the kids.” Smith continued, “Children are very important to us here at the Mission. We believe that taking advantage of educational opportunities will help break the cycle of poverty. We believe it is vital to give these kids every opportunity for educational achievement.”

Hilary Duff To Give Blessings In Backpacks

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Singer and actress Hilary Duff is expected to visit an elementary school in Florida on behalf of the Blessings In A Backpack program today, March 4.

The 21-year-old star is scheduled to appear at Tice Elementary School in Fort Myers to raise awareness of the program, which aims to feed elementary school children who qualify for the federal free and reduced meal program and may not have any or enough food on the weekends. Every Friday, students receive backpacks with food that requires little to no preparation. They return with their backpacks on Monday ready to learn, with better test scores, improved reading skills, positive behavior, and improved health.

In the area surrounding Fort Myers, the number of children participating in the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program has increased dramatically from 50 percent last year to 62 percent this year.

Look To The Stars News: Kids With A Cause

Stars Host LA Mission End Of Summer Charity Party

Hilary Duff To Give Blessings In Backpacks