HURON — The South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) recently awarded a $4,000 South Dakota Fund grant to Faith Alive Community Church.

Funding will assist in providing funds for BelieveFest, an annual event that provides much needed school supplies to approximately 900 children from families with financial need.

“Funding from the South Dakota Community Foundation has ensured that children in Beadle County start the school year with the school supplies they need, further giving them the confidence that is key to each child’s success,” said Ruth Mason, BelieveFest co-chair.

“Many families in Huron, its surrounding communities, and within the high immigrant population are facing financial hardship but funding for BelieveFest from the SDCF has given these families the encouragement they need while lessening the stress of getting school supplies for their children as they start school.”

In 2015, BelieveFest began as a way to respond to the high number of families in the Huron area who struggle financially to provide their school-aged children with their basic necessities for school.

By following the mission of Faith Alive Community Church, to serve within the church, their community and around the world, BelieveFest has grown through volunteers and donations and now helps school-aged children throughout Beadle County by providing school supplies to start the school year and gives them the confidence to succeed academically.

“We are proud to partner with Faith Alive Community Church to provide youth in Beadle County the supplies necessary to be successful in school,” said Ginger Niemann, SDCF Senior Program Officer.