could somebody share their experience in children's ministry to help me out with what I have started here?

Question

I have started an outreach program with the kids in a depressed area, and now it has grown so big I could no longer handle it with my limited resources. I now have about 160 kids attending our sunday afternoon activities and I have ran out of materials to use. Sometimes, when I have no money I am forced to skip a sunday and it really makes me feel awful. I really need help!

Answer 1

First, you should not be doing this ministry on your own!
Such activity is highly suspect these days, protect yourself.
You only need one false accusation to shut you down.

Second, approach a church or community centre for support.
Contact your civic authority or clubs like Rotary, Lions, etc.
Try any major employers or big-box stores in the area.
Civic minded groups like to sponsor such activity.
Sponsors might also contribute materials in kind;
such as arts & crafts supplies, or snacks.

Answer 2

May I ask where your resources are coming from? Because it might be time to get the community involved. Why not hold an event which will help you raise funds? That way, you can get funding for long-term use. It does not need to be big. It can be a play where you'll charge 5 pesos for entrance or something like that. This Christmas, teach a bunch of them to sing, and make rounds of the neighborhood while carolling.

I would also like to suggest that you might need to cut back on the number of kids. A good way of doing this is by setting an age limit. Or perhaps, schedule the kids so that only 50 will come at one time.

God bless!

Answer 3

Wow! That is wonderful! I am wondering where you are located? I would definitely ask for donations from area churches or neighbors. If you posted a wish list, maybe people could send you donations? Email me your list and address and I will see what I can do for you.

Answer 4

Buy or rent "MARJOE" the academy award wining movie about Marjoe Gortner. That will tell you all you need to know.