More than 1,100 local students were recently outfitted with school essentials during the Christian Community Outreach Ministry’s (CCO) annual Back to School Celebration at the Calhoun Recreation Department. The event, now a highly anticipated tradition in the community, brought together families from across Gordon County for a day filled with generosity, fun, and encouragement.
Now in its 12th year, the free event is designed to help ease the financial burden many families face at the start of the school year. Students received new backpacks loaded with school supplies, along with clothing, socks, shoes, and other essentials—thanks to months of preparation and community donations organized by the CCO team and its volunteers.
In addition to the giveaway, the event featured an upbeat festival atmosphere with free food, games, inflatable bounce houses, music, and local entertainment, offering something for every member of the family. Volunteers manned booths and activity stations while ensuring that the process of distributing supplies ran smoothly for the hundreds of attendees.
“I think it was the best year yet,” said Sherry Turner, a longtime volunteer and organizer with Christian Community Outreach Ministry. “We were able to help more children than ever before, and the turnout from both families and volunteers was incredible. There was just a real spirit of love and community in the air.”
Turner noted that in the weeks leading up to the event, donations poured in from churches, businesses, civic groups, and individual residents. Community partnerships also helped provide meals and resources, with several local restaurants and organizations donating food, drinks, and other supplies for the event.
Parents expressed gratitude throughout the day, many saying the assistance would make a big difference in preparing their children for school with confidence. For some, it also meant avoiding tough financial choices in the face of rising costs.
One mother of three said, “Without this event, we wouldn’t be ready. My kids feel excited and proud to have what they need, and that means everything.”
In addition to physical supplies, representatives from local schools and social service organizations were on hand to share information about educational resources, health services, and youth programs available throughout the school year.
The success of this year’s event further reflects the growing need and the ministry’s ongoing commitment to serving families year-round—not just during back-to-school season. Turner said the group is already thinking ahead to next year, hoping to expand even further.
Christian Community Outreach Ministry continues to accept donations and volunteer support throughout the year. More information about their programs and upcoming events is available through their social media pages and local outreach partners.
