by Lea Hurt-- Each year, our VBS kids take on missions projects connected to their week of fun and learning.  This year, determined young ones and dedicated parents connected compassion to action.  (photo: Hadiramo Shure)

Haddy Sponsorship - Five years ago, Heritage Baptist VBS leaders sponsored a young girl named Hadiramo Shure through World Vision's Golbanti Area Development Program.  Each year, our VBS kids raise enough money in one week to sponsorship of "Haddy" for an entire year.  The funds go toward Haddy's medical care, school uniforms, food & water needs.  We have watched her grow over the years through pictures sent by World Vision.  Reports from her counselors say that Haddy was promoted to third grade and is in great health.  Her family also received new mosquito netting last year as part of the sponsorship.  Our sponsorship of Haddy this year was $420.  By week's end, VBS kids had given $624! 

Backpack Buddies - The $204 over our commitment to Haddy will go to HBC's Backpack Buddy program.  During the school year, Heritage volunteers fill backpacks with easy to open and eat food items (such as microwavable macaroni & cheese, crackers, peanut butter, etc.) to be distributed to needy students at Georgetown East Elementary on Friday afternoons.  These Backpack Buddy students rely on free and reduced price meals from the school through the week, but often go hungry on the weekends.  A complete article on this program and it's beginnings is available on this site in our Spotlight section or follow this link.

International Bible Society - Our Crafts leaders (Connie Pope, Ruth Ann Shiplette and Amy Henry) helped VBS kids assemble comfort blankets to be sent to Africa and distributed via the International Bible Society. 

HBC Food Pantry - Many VBS families also brought non-perishable food items to re-stock the shelves of our Food Pantry.  Twice a week, in cooperation with the Anne Arundel County Fook Bank, HBC distributes bagged groceries to needy members of our community.

VBS leaders at Heritage spend much time discussing the importance of helping others.  This year we have been very blessed to be able to transform those words into actions with great results!  Thanks to all our VBS students, parents and volunteers!