While it may sound strange, a simple paper bag can help lead a child to Jesus, bring hope to a broken family and profoundly impact inner-city neighborhoods. How, you ask?

We have seen it happen over and over, year after year, through our annual tradition of giving “Easter Bags” to children in America’s inner cities.

Every year, volunteers fill white paper bags with treasures for children, including: candy, crayons, a toy, a colorful beaded bracelet that explains the plan of salvation and the “Urban Book of Hope,” a Bible story-activity book.

The results are astounding. We give these Easter Bags by the thousands to our partner ministries — literally hundreds of inner-city churches and neighborhood missions in some of America’s most difficult neighborhoods.

Then, they distribute them and share Jesus’ love and the story of His death and resurrection with the children of the poor — maybe at a special Easter event, sometimes door-to-door. As a result, we see miracles unfold.  Again and again, this small, simple expression of kindness opens the door for that child, and that child’s parents, to hear the Gospel. Here’s an example:

Last year, we provided Easter Bags (and crucial training) to Cynthia Smith, who directs a S.A.Y. Yes! after-school program with 20-25 children in Jacksonville. She and her team invited neighborhood children and families to an Easter event, promising an Easter Bag to each child.

In the end, eighty children showed up — many with parents! Cynthia and her team led fun activities, there were music and games, they showed a Christian children’s movie. Finally, Cynthia shared the Gospel and 15 children received Christ that day!

Twelve-year-old Jenny had never heard a thing about Jesus before. Cynthia was able to talk and pray with her, and then interact with Jenny and her parents together. They were thrilled that Jenny had accepted Christ.

Then Jenny opened up to them, for the first time ever, about the sexual pressure she was feeling. Her parents were deeply grateful to learn what she was struggling with, so they could guide and protect her.

Since that day, Cynthia and her team have followed up with all the children who trusted Christ. It’s only the beginning for these kids – the beginning of a whole new life. And it began with the promise of a simple gift, in a simple white paper bag.

This year, we’re praying that God will provide the funding, through friends like you, to share Easter Bags with at least 25,400 children in 13 cities. Every $75 given today will provide 10 Easter Bags to inner-city children this Easter. A gift of $45 will provide six. With time running out, we’re praying that you’ll join us in transforming lives. Click here to give Easter Bags to children in need today…

Here’s Life Inner City does not endorse the opinions presented in the documents, web sites, etc. we link to, nor do we endorse the organizations to whom we may refer/link to. All material is presented on this blog for the purposes of education and igniting discussion.