08/14/2026
Today at New Testament Christian Church!
’Twas the Night Before the School Readiness Fair
’Twas the night before the School Readiness Fair,
And excitement and love could be felt everywhere.
The backpacks were lined up, the school supplies too,
With shoes, socks, and clothing all waiting for you.
The tables were ready, the signs were in place,
All prepared to welcome each family with grace.
Sixty-three vendors had answered the call,
And more than one hundred volunteers gave their all.
There were pencils and notebooks and binders galore,
Backpacks and blessings from door after door.
Fresh haircuts were waiting to help kids feel bright,
And sports physicals ready to start the year right.
And no one would leave with an empty tummy that day,
A meal would be waiting along the way.
Then food boxes packed with plenty to share,
Would head home with families with love tucked in there.
Behind every table, each box and each chair,
Were people who worked because they truly care.
Churches and businesses, neighbors and friends,
All coming together where community begins.
For months there were meetings and phone calls each day,
Donations collected and details underway.
There were boxes to carry and hundreds to sort,
And somehow this community never came up short.
Tomorrow, the doors will open up wide,
And Stone County families will all step inside.
But what we hope children remember most of all
Isn't the backpack, the shoes, or supplies in the hall.
We hope they remember the smiles that they see,
And know, “All these people showed up here for me.”
That they leave knowing deeply, without any doubt:
You matter. You’re valued. That’s what this is about.
Because filling a backpack is only one part
The greatest gift given comes straight from the heart.
A meal for today, food for days still ahead,
And a community saying, “We'll make sure you're fed.”
So tonight, before morning brings one busy day,
There’s just one more important thing left to say:
To every volunteer, donor, partner, and friend,
Thank you for giving again and again.
Tomorrow we'll witness what happens when we
Put love into action through community.
So, rest while you can, morning soon will be here!
It’s finally time for our favorite day of the year.
With 63 vendors and 100-plus volunteers in sight...
Happy School Readiness Fair to all,
and to all a good night!
