Youth Programming
What began as a Thursday night Bible study with hundreds of youth from the area has blossomed into regular after school programming for children preschool through senior year of high school.
Whether it’s Youth Drop-In after school or Summer Elementary Program, students from Fennville, Bloomingdale, Innocademy or South Haven schools have a safe, caring environment at PHP where they can experience the love of Christ, learn more about the world through activities like field trips and grow to meet their God-given potential.
Impact in 2023
- 97% of Pullman Elementary School students are eligible for free or reduced lunches
- 185 children come to PHP for after school drop-in and summer programs each year
- 25 teenage students grew in their leadership skills by volunteering as mentors for the Summer Elementary Program
- 280 students supported with back-to-school supplies and clothing
- Thursday evening ministry: weekly average – 70
Programs
Youth Drop-In
After school, volunteers bring youth from school to People Helping People to receive a meal, work with volunteers on homework or other activities and play in a safe, welcoming environment. Elementary students PreK – 5th grade take the PHP bus directly to People Helping People’s Linking Center from 3:15 – 5:30 pm every Monday through Thursday. Middle & High School students grades 6-12 enjoy a safe hangout space at PHP’s Linking Center every Monday and Wednesday from 6-8 pm.
At home, many of the children who attend our programming regularly lack some of the basic life resources needed to thrive. In order to fill the gap for these needs, PHP staff partner with local schools to provide extra support for children who might need more attention or practice in a school subject.
Bible Study
Every Thursday night, 70+ children of every age come for Bible Study at PHP’s Linking Center. After a free community dinner, youth and adults participate in Bible studies, learning about the love of God through videos, worship and a short lesson.
Summer Elementary Program
During the summer months, elementary school students can come to People Helping People for lunch, summer playtime and field trips. Middle and high school students also grow through this program, receiving larger responsibility for set up, program organization and more. This opportunity is available to all youth in middle and high school who are passing all their classes and have not been suspended.
Last year Sharon, one of our high school participants, logged 200+ volunteer hours through the Summer Elementary Program, growing her skills for future jobs and adding valuable experience to her college applications.
Support Us
Over 40 regular volunteers make our youth programming possible. Learn more about how you can make a difference volunteering or supporting PHP financially.