Comanche Elementary is a school in the Shawnee Mission school district that we have supported with various ministries over the last 4-5 years. A Title I school with a 75% rate of students on free and reduced lunches, this school also has a high count of families being deported, and often times one parent is left behind to care for the family. In many cases, families are doubling up in the same household, and frequently many young children are considered latch key kids as they are left home alone after school.
St. Thomas supports this school as a community partner with the distribution of Harvester’s BackSnacks, a ministry which provides healthy snack type food for the weekend on a weekly basis throughout the school year.
We have volunteers that serve as mentors and help in the classrooms or as tutors for some of the students. This year, we have expanded our relationship through the participation of the Caring for Kids Ministry. This ministry is a combined effort of community support with local businesses, Johnson County Library, public safety and local government organizations. And, as a way for us to continue our support for the upcoming new school year, St Thomas has offered to reach out to about 50 Comanche students by assisting with their needs for backpacks and school supplies.
This ministry offers an opportunity to tend to a place within Johnson County that is in need, as well as helping us live out Baptismal commitments to respect the dignity of every human being, as we shelter and support some of the youngest among us.
To get involved, please contact the St. Thomas office at 913-451-0512!
