Harding Elementary is a public school that shares the intersection of 6th and Chestnut Streets with St. Luke’s. As some of their closest neighbors, we feel a responsibility to help support the students, faculty, and staff of this fine institution.

Here are some ways you can help:

Volunteer for Tutoring (during the school year):

First and foremost, Harding Elementary needs additional volunteers to tutor students one-on-one or with small groups in basic reading and math skills. St. Luke’s parishioner Kathy Yohn has been volunteering at Harding in this capacity for several years and is happy to discuss her experience with anyone interested in volunteering; she may be contacted via the Parish Office. Tutoring volunteers must undergo the standard criminal background checks and clearances that is required of all school-based volunteers. Harding will help you navigate that process. Once complete, you will be paired with a specific teacher and undergo some basic training and decide on a schedule that works for you. 

Contribute to St. Luke’s Harding School Fund (at any time):

Eighty-four percent of students at Harding Elementary live in poverty and may not have funds for basic school or personal care supplies. Unfortunately, the school’s budget for such items is extremely limited. St. Luke’s coordinate’s with the Harding administration and the school nurse to purchase items as needed throughout the school year.

If you would like to contribute to this fund, you can either mail a check to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 22 S 6th Street, Lebanon, PA 17042 with “Harding School Fund” in the subject line, or contribute online via our Zeffy account here.

Volunteer for Tower Roast Coffee Co. (during the school year):

Tower Roast began as an occasional before-school free coffee ministry for Harding parents and staff, run by St. Luke’s volunteers outside our bell tower entrance. It eventually evolved into a regular free lemonade or hot chocolate (depending on the season) stand for students, parents, staff, and neighbors held as school is dismissing. Every few weeks during the school year we need volunteers to make and hand out beverages. This is a low-commitment assignment, as we have a team of volunteers who help out as they are able. For details, contact Rob Box at [email protected].

Support the Angel Tree Project (Advent only):

During Advent, St. Luke’s will again partner with Harding Elementary School on the Angel Tree project – purchasing Christmas presents for Harding families in need. To participate, please choose one or more names from the tree in the sanctuary during Advent.