Photos: Church Gives Out Back-to-School Gear

Hundreds of Macomb County residents who need a little help getting their kids off to school attended Lakeside Assembly of God's back-to-school Big Give event in Shelby Township Wednesday evening.

"We're feeding the body, mind, soul and spirit," said Lakeside Assembly of God Pastor Phil Krist. "That's why I think this event is so successful."

The evening started off with an introduction to the church and a prayer session and then the families were ushered off to play, get pampered and shop.

There was something fun for all ages; the younger children were entertained by the youth pastor and a $25,000 stage that included a "foaminator" and talking puppets.

"Even in the recession, we were able to purchase this stage," said Big Give organizer Dan Broihan. "We've cut corners in the office, but the parish has never felt it."

The older kids attended an ice cream social and acted like crazy teens, trying on fun costumes and taking photos.

Lakeside's young tech-savvy youth pastors had the kids sign up on the church's Facebook page so they could keep in touch.

"We're building relationships tonight, not only digitally but in person," said Krist's daughter, Julie Hakes.

Hairdressers were on hand to give the kids and adults haircuts so they could start off the school year with confidence.

After the children socialized, the families entered the Big Give room and the children picked out their favorite school bag, which was filled with school supplies. The church also gave away coats, hats, clothing and gift certificates to Payless Shoe Store.

All the items were bought new by church members and donated to the event.

Lakeside Assembly of God has partnered with local organizations such as the Macomb Charitable Foundation, Lighthouse, Solid Ground and the Department of Human Services to spread the word about the event.

For the past few years, Lakeside has put on a Big Give event, each themed to match the changing seasons.