Agape Community Center Hosts Back to School, Health Fair

WHITESBORO — Summer winds down, thoughts turn to school and Agape Community Center at Christ Gospel Church hosted its third Back to School and Health Fair Aug. 22.
The multi-faceted event drew several hundred for a multitude of reasons.
Some were attracted by the outdoor children’s bouncing attractions.
Others were drawn by the RNS Mammovan that provided free mammograms. Those who wanted to know more went for health screenings that included blood pressure, diabetes and HIV.
Still more went for a haircut to prepare for school’s opening day.
Reggie and Muriel Anderson provided dancing exercise for those who wanted to tone some muscles.
According to Joann Maker, board member of Agape Community Center, 500 colorful, assorted book bags were distributed to children who attended.
Bishop Edgar Robinson noted that the event was the first one the public had been invited to attend in the new center on the north side of Christ Gospel Church.
In that center free hot dogs and hamburgers were given to all, as were flavorful Sno-cones.
Barber George “Chico” Williams provided free haircuts.
Staff of TD Bank’s Court House branch distributed pens, pencils and organizers.
Robinson said the bank was also invited in order to help teach young people how to manage their finances.
Vivian White, president of Agape Community Center, helped with book bag distribution, as did Florence Jones, Robin Wise and Leslie Corson.
Colin Cooper and Marquel Matthews were among youth who took turns to toss basketballs in an indoor inflatable game.
Since Middle Township Schools dictate that pupils wear standardized dress, Maker said she helped with a table that “recycled” school uniforms to younger students with assistance from Donald Chew, a teacher at Middle Township High School.
Robinson recalled a statement made years prior, when church members went before Middle Township Planning Board for permission to build the church.
“We said we wanted this to be not only a church, but a center for the entire community, and with God’s help, that is what it has become.”