MOUNT OLIVE, N.C. — The FIC organization hosted its annual bookbag giveaway event at Mount Olive, Nelson Park, providing essential school supplies to local families as the new academic year approaches. This year’s event distributed 200 backpacks, though organizers had initially set a goal of 400.
Partnership Brings Community Together
The event showcased the collaborative spirit of Mount Olive, with multiple organizations joining forces to support local students. Key partners included the Mount Olive Police Department, which provided free hotdogs for attendees, Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church, Parks and Recreation Department, the Rotary Club, and the Mount Olive Fire Department.
“This is truly a community affair,” said Al Southerland, co-founder of FIC. “We have support from so many local groups including the Rotary clubs, American Legion Carver alumni, and Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church, which has helped us since the earlier stages of our organization.”
From Humble Beginnings to Community Impact
FIC traces its roots back to 2011 when it began at North East Chapel Original Freewill Baptist Church in Mount Olive. In its first year, the organization gave away just 20 backpacks. Now in its 15th year of operation, FIC has expanded its mission far beyond the annual bookbag giveaway.
Year-Round Community Support
Throughout the year, FIC provides various services to meet basic community needs, including:
- Free hygiene kits distributed through local churches
- Health fair giveaways to approximately 10 schools
- Donations to local food pantries
- Assistance with beds and furniture for families in need
- Mentoring and tutoring programs at elementary and junior high schools
- Gift cards for adults to purchase school items
Fundraising Efforts Support Mission
To fund their initiatives, FIC employs several fundraising strategies. The organization sells chicken plates to the community, holds raffles, and participates in the local Pickles Festival. Additional support comes from community donations and partnerships with organizations like All the King’s Children non-profit, led by Marsha Whitley, and the Mount Olive Pickle Company.
Resilience Through Challenges
The organization has demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing operations even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Southerland noted that “the best one we had was in the rain,” emphasizing the community’s commitment to the cause regardless of circumstances.
“We didn’t stop giving out bookbags even during COVID-19,” Southerland said, highlighting the organization’s dedication to serving local families during difficult times.
Looking Forward
FIC has ambitious plans for the future, including upcoming events to help renovate the Henrietta Williams Community Center. The organization continues to rely on community volunteers who contribute their time and effort to make events like the bookbag giveaway possible.
“We will continue to have health fairs and other things we do for the community,” Southerland said. “Go to the schools to mentor and tutor.”
The annual bookbag giveaway represents just one facet of FIC’s comprehensive approach to community support, demonstrating how local partnerships can create meaningful impact for families in need.
Check out the event Photo Gallery:
