In the wake of mass shootings across the country, a fear to leave home and resume daily tasks has impacted many families.
Aiming to shine its light and unite the community as the school year approaches, Christ Temple Pentecostal Church in West Bloomington hosted its 10th annual Community Day event last weekend.
Leader of the church, Pastor Melvin Campbell said the Aug. 10 event was created to give back to the community while lifting its spirits during hard times.
“With all the chaos going on in the world today, the mass shootings, sex trafficking, and a number of other things that have caused grief, we started this event to bring joy to the community and at this moment in time, take its mind off of the recent tragedies for a little while,” Campbell said.
Giving away school supplies, free food, electronics, and more, the event gave families one last time to have outdoor fun before the school year begins.
“There are a lot of needs that haven't been met in the city of Bloomington,” Campbell said. “People are homeless, some are facing drug addiction and others need help with providing for their kids. We want these kids to have everything they need to have a successful school year, so we believe any little action a person can take towards fulfilling those needs will make a difference. That’s why we’re here today.”
Amber Coleman of Normal has been a member of the church for the past two years.
“I love seeing members of the community give back to those in need, especially after the tragedies that have occurred over the past few weeks,” Coleman said.
“You never know what someone is going through and the kids are heading back to school next week, so I think it’s important for the community to unite and serve those who may lack something but can’t afford to get it because of their circumstance,” she said.
Along with face painting, bounce houses, obstacle courses and live music, the event also offered free haircuts and services provided by Hairmasters cosmetology school.
Christina and John Rivera of Bloomington lost a close family member in the El Paso, Texas, shooting on Aug. 3. When they found out about Community Day, they felt it was a good way to bring their family together and prepare for their kids for the school year.
“The shooting has really affected our family, and it’s been a struggle coping with the loss of our loved one,” Christina Rivera said. “The racism in this country has made my family feel unsafe, and ever since the shooting most of my family members have been afraid to leave their houses.”
“Since the church has been known as a safe haven during hard times, when we saw the flyer for the event I thought getting our family out of the house to go somewhere uplifting would be best,” John Rivera said. “Seeing they were giving free haircuts was a bonus because money has been tight since we’ve had to pay for traveling expenses. Providing these free services and being able to get extra school supplies for our kids really makes things a bit easier for us.”
Everything at the event was provided free of charge.
“Our mission here is to serve the community as Christ served when he walked the earth, so we do whatever we can to give back in hopes that our efforts lift burdens and transform lives,” Campbell said.
The annual Community Day event is fully funded by Christ Temple Pentecostal Church. To make a donation for next year’s event, visit MyChristTemple.net.
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