The Lake Gaston Ladies Club donated $3,750 and dispersed the money among area elementary schools. 

Knowing the challenge of education during the pandemic, the club designated $750 dollars to each of five local elementary schools in support of their educational efforts. 

In the gallery from left: Munday presents checks to the following — Angela Sessoms of  Everetts; Mark Barfield, division student servives and public affairs director, interim principal John Niles and assistant principal Benedict Fagbeyrio of Gaston Elementary; Connie Puckett, principal of Lacrosse Elementary; Latonia Hutcherson of Meherrin-Powellton Elementary; and Renee Mizelle, principal of Vaughn Elementary.

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Alison Munday, who spearheaded the outreach effort, presented checks to Gaston Elementary in Northampton County, Meherrin-Powellton Elementary in Brunswick County, Everetts Elementary in Halifax County, Lacrosse Elementary in Mecklenburg, and Vaughn Elementary in Warren County. 

This donation will impact over 1,200 local elementary students. “Teachers and staff often purchase classroom supplies with their own money, so no matter how the donations are used, we are sure the donations will be put to good use,” the club said.

The schools will use the donations in varying ways including off-setting supplies not covered in normal funds, supporting an annual awards day, and assisting in the costs for digital resources units in math, reading, and science. 

“This year, with the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, learning has been a uniquely challenging year for educators, staff, and especially the students who have had to adjust to a new way of learning,” the club said. “The members of the Lake Gaston Ladies Club understand the power of education, and as such they are continually seeking opportunities to make a difference in local schools.”

This donation was increased over the initial fund-raising efforts by over $100 per school due to a donation by an anonymous member who donated their entire stimulus check.

Previous educationally focused outreach projects have included a pen-pal program — writing letters to students to enable learning and practicing cursive handwriting and writing composition. Additionally, the club sponsors an annual scholarship that is open to club members and their extended families.

While the club has not had the ability to meet this year as they normally would, at large monthly luncheons, the smaller activity groups are still meeting as local guidelines allow. These groups include, line dancing, needlework, card and game groups, and even an outdoor activity group, among others. 

Those interested in becoming a member of the club may visit their website at this link

www.lakegastonlc.org 

The Lake Gaston Ladies Club is open to ladies who live on Lake Gaston or in Lake Gaston subdivisions. “Like many in our community we are all looking forward to a time when we can get together again. Until that time we encourage everyone in the community to stay safe, stay vigilant in wearing masks and hand washing, get your vaccine when it is available, and keep reaching out to support education everywhere.”