Parishioners hand out $25 gift certificate vouchers to 2,000 parents Aug. 9

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Knapsacks. Binders. Calculators. Pens. Post-it notes.

While the prospect of back-to-school can be daunting for kids, the cost can be equally stress-inducing for parents.

Islington Evangel Centre is cushioning the financial blow for 2,000 families living in community housing complexes in the areas of Jamestown, Mount Olive, Silverstone and Queen's Plate.

Tomorrow morning, approximately 100 parishioners will hit the streets, armed with $25 Staples gift certificate vouchers to help parents buy school supplies.

"They're so excited. There's nothing better for a church than to go out and be missionaries themselves for a day, help someone and see where their money is going," David Connolly, associate pastor with the church said Friday afternoon of the eager parishioners.

But there won't be a Bible in sight.

"Our goal is to show the love of Christ, not to evangelize."

The Queen's Plate Drive church is no stranger to missionary work.

It gives $100,000 every year to missions in Africa, South America and Europe.

Church elders and deacons responded positively when Connolly asked if half this year's giving could remain in the community.

"It's unbelievable. Wonderful. People have rallied. It's spectacular," Connolly said of parishioners' enthusiasm. "I know it's going to help people."

While Toronto Community Housing staff helped with logistics, the gifts will come as a surprise to most residents.

"It's important. We need to help others. It's a good thing."