2011 Annual Back to School Giveaway -
1,200 FREE LOADED BACKPACKS TO LOW INCOME FAMILIES!



For 19 years, CROSS Ministries has provided children from low income families with a new backpack filled with the school supplies they need to begin their school year. This August we were able to assist 1,200 children before our supplies ran out. As you can see by the photo, the line stretches from the main entrance in the parking lot, around the sides of the building, and then beyond the corner of 24th and Cottage Grove.
BTS line 09
Children of low and no income households are most affected by the poverty their families experience. The best way to get them out of the poverty cycle is through education. If a child has to start school without the basic supplies needed, or has to start school late while waiting for the money to purchase the supplies, it puts them at a major disadvantage. Therefore, the Back to School Giveaway is an investment in the future for us all.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Bring IDs for all members of the family - such as a social security card, medical card, student ID, etc.
  • Proof that income is at or below 150% of poverty level - paycheck stub, public assistance statement, income tax return, etc.
For questions call 515-279-9998.

To Donate:
Since we do not count on using our general program funds that have been intended for emergency rent, utilities, and other basic needs, your donations are greatly needed!

CROSS Ministries needs money to purchase supplies in bulk, at a discount. For every $15.00 that you donate, one child living in poverty, in our community, can receive a backpack filled with the grade appropriate school supplies needed to begin the 2011-2012 school year.

Supplies may also be purchased and delivered to Cottage Grove Presbyterian Church, 1050 - 24th Street, Des Moines. Please call ahead for hours that the supplies may be dropped off at 515-279-8877. Items needed for the Giveaway include:
  • new backpacks
  • notebook paper
  • wireless spirals
  • 3-ring binders
  • markers
  • crayons
  • zip pencil pouch
  • scissors
  • glue sticks
  • white glue
  • plastic pencil boxes
  • pens
  • Kleenex
  • colored pencils
  • pocket folders

Thank you for any help that you can offer to this vital giveaway program for school children!