By Bryant Thigpen
Riverbend News
Approximately 235 students in Lafayette County were on hand Wednesday, Aug. 5., at the Edward Perry Sports Complex in Mayo to receive a variety of items to help them have a successful school year. The event, known as “Operation Sting,” is a collaborative effort of many churches in Lafayette County.
“We are churches working together for the betterment of the kids and to bless the children of our community,” said Tim Hamm, pastor of the Alton Church of God. “It’s a testimony to the world when the churches work together, and it’s our vision that the children of Lafayette County would feel loved by God and the community.”
Students in attendance were able to receive a free backpack filled with school supplies, gently used clothing, a bagged meal, snack box and a couple received a free haircut at a local salon.
For those who have attended “Operation Sting” in the past, they would have noticed many changes that were made to this year’s event due to the coronavirus pandemic. This event, which began about 12 years ago, was previously held at the Alton Life Center, due to it being one of the largest indoor facilities in the area. However, due to the coronavirus and the recommendations of local health officials, the event was moved outdoors to the Edward Perry Sports Complex, and the volunteers served the people in a drive-thru giveaway.
In years past, they have been able to give away free shoes to the students. However, due to the event being held in a drive-thru style, money which would have been spent on shoes was donated to the schools to distribute amongst the grades for supplies.
Another change worth noting was the creation of haircut certificates for students. Previously, several barbers from local salons would set up inside the Alton Life Center and would give the students a haircut the day of the event. Instead, students this year received a coupon that allowed them to make an appointment at a local salon for their haircut.
“I’m glad the event was able to go on, and I feel like it was a great success,” said Hamm. “Holding the event at the sports complex, it had a different kind of feel, but it was good kind of feel,” he said. “It made it feel more like a community event, and we liked it.”
If a Lafayette County student was unable to attend the event and is in need of a backpack or a certificate for a haircut, parents are encouraged to call Teresa Hamm at (386) 294-4155 for assistance while supplies last.