The Indianapolis Black Firefighters Association and Principles of Doctrine of Christ Ministries are hosting a backpack giveaway this Saturday to support local youth.

The event, now in its fifth year, was initiated in response to a tragic incident in 2021 when a 12-year-old boy was killed while playing video games at his grandmother’s house. The organizers aim to provide both school supplies and spiritual support to children in the community.

“We wanted to pray for the youth, pray for their protection,” Deborah Cooley of PDOC Ministries said. “Because they do need the supplies, but you do need prayer to get through this life.”

The giveaway event will feature backpacks tailored to different age groups, ensuring that children from elementary to high school have appropriate supplies.

“The supplies this year are the same for each age group, but the backpack sizes vary,” Cooley explained. In addition to the backpack distribution, a bookmobile from the Indianapolis Public Library will be present, allowing children to select books of their choice.

This initiative aims to encourage reading and provide children with autonomy in their learning. The Indianapolis Black Firefighters Association will also participate by offering tours of a fire truck, adding an educational and interactive element to the event.

Cory Floyd, President of the IBFA, emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing societal issues.

The backpack giveaway represents a collaborative effort to address both educational and spiritual needs within the community, with organizers encouraging early attendance due to the event’s first-come, first-served nature.

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Matthew West, an acclaimed Christian music singer-songwriter, will perform at the Brown County Music Center in Nashville, Indiana, on July 28.

This concert is part of West’s tour promoting his 13th studio album, ‘Don’t Stop Praying,’ which includes the hit single of the same name.

“I’ve just never been so excited to be making music and hopefully putting some messages of hope out into the world,” West shared in a recent interview.

Matthew West has achieved significant acclaim in the music industry, boasting 37 No. 1 songs as both an artist and songwriter.

His accolades include five GRAMMY nominations, an American Music Award, a Billboard Music Award, and multiple GMA Dove Awards.

Beyond his music career, West has co-hosted the K-LOVE Fan Awards seven times and has over 275 songwriting credits, collaborating with artists like Rascal Flatts, Amy Grant, and Casting Crowns.

The Brown County Music Center, celebrating its fifth anniversary, offers an intimate concert experience with its 2,000-seat venue. Since its opening in 2019, it has hosted a wide range of artists, including Vince Gill and The Beach Boys.

Tickets for Matthew West’s concert are now available for purchase online at ticketmaster.com, browncountymusiccenter.com and at the venue’s box office.

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Twelve-year-old Champ Pittman has published his first book, inspired by his younger brother’s experiences on his first day of kindergarten.

Champ’s book, titled ‘Cash’s First Day of Kindergarten,’ draws from the real-life experiences of his brother, Cash, and aims to share a story of kindness and support.

Champ’s motivation to write the book stemmed from his desire to support his brother during the ups and downs of starting kindergarten. “He’s the best brother I could have and I love him,” Champ said, expressing his admiration for Cash.

Ashley, Champ’s mother, shared that Champ has always been a caring and responsible child.

Champ is already working on his next book, which will focus on Cash’s first baseball game, indicating his continued interest in writing and storytelling.

Champ credits his faith and the support of his family for helping him through the writing process, saying, “God helped me go through the book without no struggles.”

Champ Pittman’s journey as a young author is just beginning, with his stories reflecting the love and support he shares with his family. His work is a testament to his creativity and compassion.

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