CHAMPION — Reaching out to local children to help them know Jesus Christ is part of the weekly Kids Club offered 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Champion Presbyterian Church, 4997 Mahoning Ave.

Cheri Smith, program coordinator and director of youth and children’s ministry, said the Kids Club discipleship program provides activities for children and teens at the church for 12 weeks through mid-May.

”We have a great group of volunteers who dedicate their time each Wednesday night. They volunteer their time with extra programs such as game night, swim night and bowling, which are all extensions of Kids Club,” Smith said.

She said while all children come together at the beginning of the program they then are separated by age group to different classes with preschool, elementary age, middle school, high school and young adult.

”We are using a 12-week discipleship program from Samaritan’s Purse which does Operation Christmas Child,” Smith said.

Last fall, the children in the program collected items for shoeboxes which were sent to children overseas. They also made cards and crafts to be sent to the children.

”Just like all the children around the world who receive the boxes, they also take part in a 12-week discipleship program. We are doing the same program here that they are holding for children all over the world,” she said.

The Bible-based program has been held at the church for 14 years as a way to bring children into the church to be with other children.

The ”Greatest Journey” is a 12-lesson discipleship program to help children know Jesus, follow him every day and tell others the good news.

The Rev. Stephen Stelle, pastor of the church, said, ”It is a wonderful program for the church and the community.”

There is also a praise band that practices the same evening, and the children attend a music session as part of the program.

Robbie Pate, a fifth-grader from Champion, said, “I like the program because it is fun. I was here before and wanted to come back again.”

Trinity Wolff, 11, fifth-grader from Southington, said she has been part of the program for three years and enjoys the games, music ,and learning about Jesus.

Smith said the children are from Champion, Southington, Howland, Cortland and other areas. Children can join at any time by calling 330-847-9614, she said.