Back-to-school fair in Newark brings free supplies, hope to many Haitians in hardship

NEWARK, N.J. — The grounds of Maranatha Haitian Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church transformed into a vibrant sanctuary Sunday afternoon as hundreds streamed in for free hot meals, cornhole and dominoes, and grooming services as part of a back-to-school community fair.

Organized by the Bridging Thee Gap Foundation [sic] in partnership with the church, the third annual event drew local residents, including many Haitian families, to the church in the West Ward. Participants received free backpacks, school supplies, clothing, manicures and hairstyles as the community’s way of ensuring children are ready to kick off the new school year.

“With people losing their ability to stay or work, we’re just grateful to help families in need get book bags, clothes and supplies,” said Wensley Eloy, an organizer whose brother, Wherlentz Eloy, founded the event. 

Refuge amid immigration and economic struggles

Wherlentz Eloy said the annual effort has indeed grown from a way for him to give back as a barber when he and the church first started holding it in 2024. As of this year, he said, they are a nonprofit “serving our people at their core.”

Offering back-to-school supplies fits into the mission of a core service, as many families are struggling after the Trump administration ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians, leaving thousands around the country without legal status to work. With heightened anxiety and lost income as a result, the event offered immediate, practical relief and emotional support.

Volunteer Jonas Pierre emphasized how vital the event is, as he set up tables and tents for the afternoon. 

“They may not be able to afford anything, especially going to the store to buy things for their kids,” Pierre said, referring to people who have lost status. “This gives them school supplies and clothes so they can send their children to school confidently, rather than worrying about everything going on in the world.”

Pierre offered a direct message of resilience to impacted Haitian families.

 “Keep holding on,” he encouraged. “God has everything under control. Keep providing for your kids and sending them to school, because education is one of the greatest tools you can give them. Gather together with others in the community to get the help you need.”

Small business owners, independent hair braiders, manicurists and trade professionals who volunteer their skills bring more to the event than supplies, they say.

“Barbers have the gift to make people feel good about themselves and smile,” said Justin, a professional barber from nearby Elizabeth who spent the day giving haircuts to young boys.  “The best feeling is seeing them leave the chair smiling with a sharp cut, feeling ready.”

Kelly de Oliveira, who offered free face painting, underscored the role of joy during difficult times. 

“We know our community is facing hard moments with immigration, but this event brings hope, joy, and a reminder that God has better plans for the Haitian community.”

Volunteer Samira Chéry-Geffrard, who facilitated games including basketball arcades and giant Connect Four, reflected on the Haitian people’s historical strength and shared a message of resilience.

“It is a tough time right now, but we need to rely on each other,” Chéry-Geffrard said. “Beyond prayer, practical actions matter — sharing information, helping translate for immigration services, and letting kids play and be stress-free before their academic year starts.”

The post Back-to-school fair in Newark brings free supplies, hope to many Haitians in hardship appeared first on The Haitian Times.