The Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry, or BEAM, is currently gearing up for two major annual events that take place in August.
The 26th annual Back to School with BEAM event will take place at Beach Church from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Aug. 3. During this event, more than 700 students ages pre-school through high school will receive a new backpack and school supplies, new underwear, a voucher for a new pair of shoes and an opportunity to “shop for free” for new and gently used clothing.
BEAM continues to rely on individuals and groups to donate gently used clothing, shoes and new underwear to ensure students have a variety of items to choose from. Donations are being accepted at the 7north BEAM thrift shop, located at 318 7th Avenue, North Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 in the donation area behind the building. BEAM hopes to have the items needed by July 26th. For a full list of donation drop-off locations or to find out more about how you can attend, volunteer or donate, visit www.jaxbeam.org/back-to-school-with-beam.
In order to support events like Back to School with BEAM and other programs such as BEAM’s food assistance, financial assistance, nutrition and single-parent programs, the organization will host its annual fundraising gala event, the BEAM of Light Beach Ball, on Saturday, Aug. 24 at the TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse. The event is presented by Ullmann Brown Wealth Advisors and will include an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music by RadioLove Band and auctions. Tickets are available for $150 each. Young professionals (35 years old and younger) can purchase tickets for $100.
“BEAM is often a lifeline for families who suddenly find themselves in crisis with nowhere to turn. No one should feel helpless and alone when they are trying to feed and house their children. It is why I am pleased to, again this year, help BEAM raise money so it can continue to support beach communities.” said Jennifer Waugh, news anchor at WJXT-TV Channel 4 News.
Waugh will be the Master of Ceremonies for the event and the auctioneer will be Jacquelyn Smith, director of special operations for Congressman John Rutherford.
“BEAM is a community-driven organization and it is thanks to all of our generous community members that we are able to help our neighbors in need through events such as Back to School with BEAM and funds from the BEAM of Light Beach Ball. We hope that once again, our community will come together and make these events a success this year,” Lori Richards, executive director of BEAM said.
For event, ticket and sponsorship information, visit www.jaxbeam.org/ball.
For Back to School with BEAM information, call Patsy Garcia at (904) 241-7437 x106 or email patsy@jaxbeam.org. For BEAM of Light Beach Ball information, call Gracie Simendinger at (904) 241-7437 x103 or email gracie@jaxbeam.org.
