The Fayette County School System’s CARE (Children at Risk in Education) program got an unexpected gift this week.

Mike Stachura, ministry team pastor of Grace Evangelical Church in Fayetteville, presented CARE Coordinator Karen Spangler with a $200 donation from the congregation. Spangler says the funds will be used to fund After School Program (ASP) Scholarships for working families that cannot afford to pay after school tuition.

“We have seen our ASP scholarship requests increase this year. We are grateful to receive these funds so that we can provide assistance to our students and their families,” says Spangler.

Referrals for the scholarship program are carefully screened by CARE team members to make sue that they meet certain requirements, one being that each adult family member is employed but financially unable to meet tuition requirements.

Grace Evangelical Church has also pledged its help with the annual CARE Angel Tree project that fulfills nontraditional needs of Fayette’s students such as hearing aid batteries, band instruments, extra curricular activity fees and eyeglass, for example.

“Participation in activities makes school more meaningful for children. It nourishes their spirit and enables them to use their gifts and creativity. No child should have to forgo these opportunities because of money,” says Spangler.

The angel tree program began as a way for employees at the school system’s LaFayette Educational Center and county office to connect with the needs of students in the schools. Employees and community organizations have generously helped fulfill angel requests over the years and in the process have helped hundreds of students enjoy a more rewarding and fuller academic experience.

Contact Karen Spangler at 770-460-1309 for more information about CARE, ASP scholarships or this year’s Angel Tree project.

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