IRONTON — St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ironton will host a “Tools for Schools” school supply give away program for needy children of Ironton and surrounding Lawrence County.

The give away will be

at 10 a.m. Saturday at 101 S. Sixth St. in Ironton. The child must be present.

Ironton has

23.1 percent of the population living below the poverty line.

Of the total population living in poverty, 32.4 percent are under the age of 18.

During the 2003-2004 school year, the Ohio Department of Education determined the percentage of economically disadvantaged students in those districts that are encompassed by St. Paul’s ministry and outreach:

4Ironton City Schools (1,578 students) - 48.4 percent disadvantaged

4Rock Hill Schools (1,915 students) - 57.9 percent disadvantaged

4Symmes Valley Schools (911 students) - 41.8 percent disadvantaged

4Dawson Bryant Schools (1,304 students) - 45.0 percent disadvantaged

In August 2005, St. Paul Lutheran Church, in partnership with All Saints Lutheran Church in Worthington had a “Tools for Schools” back to school giveaway.

They distributed more than 1,200 back packs filled with school supplies. They also distributed new books for the younger children. This year the target number is 2,000 back packs.

“The teachers in the community told us of the impact it had on the kids last year, being able to have all the needed supplies. So, we have attempted to provide for more children this year.” said the Rev. Mike Poole, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Many of these students begin the school year without even basic school supplies and a backpack or carrying case. Many teachers provide these students with basic supplies paid for out of their own pocket.

St. Paul Lutheran Church is collaborating with several other congregations and organizations that will be collecting items and providing volunteers for the event.

For information on how to donate items or volunteer, contact Poole at (740) 532-4727.

St. Paul Lutheran Church is located in downtown Ironton. Since its beginning in 1859, the church has worked to be an integral part of the community, striving to reach out and serve all those in need.

St. Paul Lutheran Church is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.