ALABASTER – The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit in Alabaster is collecting school and classroom supplies to donate to Meadow View Elementary School.

“We always want to be here to help whenever help is necessary,” Parish Administrator Tara Portney said. “It’s one of the many things we do in the community. It’s our responsibility to give back.”

Portney said Holy Spirit has been collecting supplies for five consecutive summers and chose to donate to MVES because of its close ties to the church.

“School supplies are a big need this time of year,” Portney said. “A couple of our parishioners are teachers at Meadow View and we know that a need is there.”

So far, Portney said this year’s school supply drive has been a success.

“Considering that we’re a small congregation, we have done pretty good,” Portney said.

For many of the younger congregation members, Portney said the drive provides a lesson on the importance of giving back to the community.

“It’s a twofold thing. It shows kids in our parish the community outreach. They get to see their parents and other parishioners giving back,” Portney said.

While the school supply drive technically ends on Sunday, July 30, Portney said the church is still open to donations.

“We picked July 30 so we have a chance to get the donations to the school before school is in session,” Portney said. “We’re willing to do it year round if necessary.”

Portney said she is available at the church from Tuesday through Thursday every week, and can meet donors at the church by appointment. For more information about the school supply drive, call 621-3418.