BY Jurry Taalib-Deen
Journal Staff Writer
Mike Colbert, and Franklin Park Lincoln, aren’t strangers to the community. Over the years they’ve sponsored events that either provided free haircuts to children, or made sure families received gifts and food at Christmas time.
On Saturday, August 10, Mr. Colbert, and Franklin Park Lincoln, struck again, when they hosted their third annual book bag, and school supply giveaway. Held at Tabernacle of Faith, 701 Central Avenue, their goal was to outdo the number of children they served the previous year.
A salesman at Franklin Park Lincoln, Mr. Colbert told, The Toledo Journal, he’s giving back to the community because so many of people have purchased cars from him over the years, and he felt that sponsoring a charitable event would be a good way to show his appreciation.
The charitable cause didn’t stop at the book bags. Each one was filled with schools supplies, and hygiene products such as a toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Further, each child was treated to free hamburgers, hot dogs, potato chips, and a drink.
“Look, if anyone is in a position to do host some type of charitable cause, then they should, because many of the kids are in need,” Mr. Colbert said. Pulling in to the giveaway, which was held in the parking lot of the church, was a bus filled with 23 children from Grace Community Center. Jay Shavers, youth, and facility director, said once he found out about the event, and knew he had to make sure some of the children at the center could obtain those supplies.
“We selected many of the children who were already attending our summer program, to come today and receive those supplies. Something like this really helps the parents,” he said.
Mr. Colbert extended a thank you to those who helped make the event successful. Those sponsors included, The Toledo Journal who provided the hamburgers, buns, and chips, Dr. Frankel Dentistry, who provided toothbrushes, and toothpaste, and Rudy’s Hot Dog on Monroe St., who supplied the hot dogs. Two of the managers were in attendance, helping to fire up the grill, and get the hot dogs started.
Brittany Tyner said, “It feels good to be a part of helping others, especially children.”
“It’s been our pleasure to help out over the past three years,” said Melissa Wyman. “When it comes to community outreach, we try to help as much as possible,” she said.
