The families we serve…
On July 24, the CROSS Outreach new executive director Gary Hanson and many, many volunteers un-packed and sorted the back-to-school supplies. Then, on July 25, these dedicated volunteers prepared 1,200 backpacks with age appropriate school supplies for grades: Pre-Kindergarten–2nd 3rd–5th 6th–8th 9th–12th The backpacks are now ready to be distributed and will be available starting August 1, 2023 at each of the 15 DMARC food pantries in the Des Moines metro area. To determine which one is closest to you, use the DMARC website's handy navigation tool to find both locations and hours of each of the food pantries. To qualify for a backpack, a family must have a child in the household within the PreK–12th grades. Please bring your ID for…
The 31st Annual CROSS Outreach Back to School Giveaway is an investment in the future for everyone! The Back-to-School Giveaway is one of the most important and fun programs that CROSS offers every year! The Giveaway grew out of the awareness that the children of low- and no-income households are most affected by the poverty their families’ experience. The BEST way to get kids out of the poverty cycle is through education. For every $20 you donate, a child living in poverty can receive a backpack filled with grade-appropriate school supplies. Supplies and backpacks will be given to 1,200 children through our partnership with DMARC and their 15 partner food pantries throughout the Greater Des Moines area. DONATIONS NEEDED Donate…
Who: You are invited and whomever you invite are welcome to attend! What: "Get-to-know Gary Gathering" Deserts and refreshments provided Come and go event Brief CROSS Outreach update at 6:15pm When: Wednesday, June 28, 5:30–7:00pm Where: Central Presbyterian Church 3829 Grand Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50312 Why: Exciting things are happening at CROSS! “Wait a minute... this young woman is only two months older than my daughter and she is completely on her own,” a realization by CROSS’ new executive director that may or may not have made him cry.