Bryant Temple AME Church continued its commitment to Leimert Park families with a Back to School Giveaway block party on August 19, that featured such essential services as high blood pressure and dental care screenings, free haircuts for children, and free school supplies.
Church officers and members served hot dogs, hamburgers and cold sodas to the hungry crowd.
“The multicultural mix of people of various colors and ages was the type of message that residents all over the city now look for – to find a place where peace and tranquility reign in these troubling times,” said Pastor Dwaine Jackson, who created the event with the Rev. Lance McNeil, director of youth and young adults. Also, church members offered strong support as well.
Over 300 young people and their families attended the event. Youth received backpacks with colorfully decorated designs. Inside was an array of school supplies including pens, pencils, and writing tablets.
Agahby Comprehensive Community Health Center, an innovative community medical provider with offices in Walnut Park and Compton, provided onsite medical examinations focused on high blood pressure check ups and preventive care. The Inglewood-based Children’s Dental Center offered varnish treatment with emphasis on preventive hygiene.
Barbers Gloria, DJ, and Terrance Neal from the House of Mauhse donated their time and talent toward getting kids ready for school. Young people viewed interactive video games in a customized truck supplied by local vendor, Gamez On The Go.
Bryant Temple has experienced significant progress under Jackson’s leadership. Since his appointment as pastor in October 2016, the church has restructured its worship activities and business operations, implemented a temporary shelter program and established an IRS-certified community development corporation.
“Our mission is to strengthen the quality of life in the local community. We cannot be genuine in our spiritual life without being mindful of the struggles that people around us experience on a daily basis,” said Jackson.
“These efforts are not haphazard, but are part of an overall plan. The work of the church must include listening to our neighbors so that we can work with them to make everyone’s lives better,” he noted.
Bryant Temple is located at 2525 W. Vernon Ave., in Los Angeles. To learn more, call (323) 293-6201.
