01

Shop with a Purpose at Connections Gifts & Books

Did you know? Every purchase at Connections Gifts & Books helps change lives. 

Connections is entirely volunteer-run, and 100% of proceeds support the work of Hub for Hope and Angel House Tanzania.

Thanks to the support of Connections shoppers, Hub for Hope provided $4,449 in rental and utility assistance in May alone. These funds help individuals and families facing financial hardship remain stable, meet essential needs, and find hope during challenging times.

When you shop at Connections, you're doing more than purchasing a gift or a book—you’re investing in your community and helping provide practical support to neighbors in need.

Stop by and say hello! Connections Gifts & Books is open on Sundays and for special events.

Learn More About Ways to Get Involved

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Back to School Bash: Clothing Essentials Ready to Go

Planning is underway for the 2026 Back to School Bash, happening Saturday, August 1, from 9:00–11:30 a.m. at the Jordan YMCA. Once again, St. Luke’s will host the Clothing and School Supply Essentials Room to help students and families prepare for the school year. 

Thanks to the leadership of Maria Blake and a dedicated small group, clothing from Washington Township schools’ lost and found has been collected, sorted, and cleaned for the event. In previous years, volunteers washed more than 50 pounds of clothing at home—a time-consuming task that also put extra strain on personal appliances.

This year, a new partnership made the process much easier. Jump Laundry generously offered the use of its commercial-sized washers and dryers, allowing the team to complete the work in just two days. Because of that support, a wide selection of clean clothing has already been delivered to the YMCA for distribution at the Bash. 

Register Here to Volunteer

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Back to School Bash: Teens Need the Basics, Too

As we prepare for the Back to School Bash, we’re also making sure teenagers have the essentials they need to begin the school year with confidence.

Along with school supplies and clothing, that includes something easy to overlook but deeply important: new socks and underwear.

One small group made a big impact: Still (Learning Like) Crazy After All These Years collected $512, which provided 99 pairs of socks and 102 pairs of underwear for teens.

The collection drive continues through July 12, and donations of adult-size socks and underwear for teens are still needed.

Collection bins are located outside the worship areas at North Indy, Midtown, and the Lodge. 

Get More!

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