20 years of quiet service, lasting change

For two decades, a small group of women has quietly and consistently made a difference in the lives of students -- one simple bag at a time.

The story of LifeChangers began when Kris Ann Creteau, then a teacher at GRC, recognized a growing need for hygiene items among students.

Wanting to help, she reached out to her mother, Pat Skinnemon, who brought the idea to the Women's Missionary Union at Central Baptist Church, where a small Sunday School group embraced the opportunity to serve.

From that moment, LifeChangers was formed. Made up of just 14 to 15 dedicated members, the group committed to a simple but meaningful mission.

Each month, every member brings five hygiene bags carefully packed with essentials like deodorant, soap, shampoo, a toothbrush, and toothpaste.

The group's consistency is what sets them apart. For 20 years, they have met and prepared these bags 11 months out of the year, averaging around 825 bags annually.

What began with Pat Skinnemon making deliveries herself has, in recent years, been carried on by Brenda Parker and Donald Parker, who transport the bags — sometimes as many as 75 at a time — to Shearer Elementary’s Family Resource Center.

From there, FRYSC coordinators across the district pick them up and distribute them to students who can benefit.

There are no headlines or spotlights at their monthly meetings. Just a group of women, showing up, packing bags, and doing the work.

For 20 years, this group of humble servants has been exactly what their name suggests — changing lives. One bag at a time.