Most churches have space that is unused during the week.  White River United Methodist Church in White River, South Dakota has filled their space with kids and laughter.  Each day children from the public school come to the church and participate in an after-school program that is run by volunteers and donations.

Photo: Kids gather at White River UMC for an after-school program that is run by volunteers and donations.  File photo.

“We found out the school had lost their twenty-first century grant to operate an after-school program,“ said Rev. Linda Balldock.  “Children were hanging out on the playground and the streets.  You could just see often times they were getting into trouble. We just felt that he children did not have exposure to church and also didn’t have exposure to God.”

When the school bell rings 20-35 children head to the church two blocks away each day from 3:30-5:30 p.m.  There are always three volunteers Rev. Linda Baldock, Cathy Chapman and Donna Harris to greet them. Sometimes there are more volunteers to help with learning activities, crafts and serve a healthy snack.

Parents in the community are grateful for the program.  “It’s a benefit for some of us people who have to work. The kids have Some place to go and have fun with their friends. They get some learning in-they get some basics and teach some Bible stories, “ said Chance Wooden Knife who has a son that participates in the program.

The volunteers also enjoy the opportunity to be involved with the children. Cathy Chapman, volunteer teacher said, “I tell you what, I don’t get paid a cent.  But the hugs that I get when I am over at the grocery store. The kids will come up and say 'Hi Mrs. Chapman' and give me a hug.  That is the best pay anybody could get.”

This is the fourth year that White River UMC has provided the afterschool program.  The church hopes to continue the program.  Learning time, healthy snacks, laughter filling an otherwise empty church building.  Everyone wins in White River.

Everyone Wins in White River from Dakotas UMC on Vimeo.