An uplifting tradition that brings together communities, churches and schools will once again take place this August as the Okmulgee County Prayer Walk returns for its 9th year. The event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 2, beginning at 9 a.m., with participants meeting at Brock Gymnasium on the campus of Okmulgee High School.
The annual Prayer Walk serves as a unifying moment for residents across Okmulgee County to come together in faith, offering prayers for students, teachers and school staff ahead of the new academic year. From public school campuses to local colleges, the walk spans multiple locations across the county.
Organizer Christy Parker, who graduated from Okmulgee High School, was inspired to launch the first event after a powerful personal moment during her daily commute.
“God laid it on my heart to post something on Facebook about having a prayer walk,” Parker said of that pivotal day in May nine years ago. “He was speaking to me about it during my whole 30-minute drive, and I ended up going ahead and posting a status about it.”
The response was immediate and overwhelming.
“My phone blew up with support from ev- 2, from 10-11:30 a.m. at 106 W. 13th Street in Okmulgee.
Organized as a drive-thru event, families can simply pull into the YMCA parking lot and receive free supplies without leaving their vehicle. There’s no need for ID or proof of enrollment – just show up and receive supplies for students ranging from Pre-K to 12th grade.
“This event is designed to make sure every child in Okmulgee starts the school year with the tools they need to succeed,” organizers said. “We want to remove barriers for families, and that means making the process as easy and accessible as possible.”
The giveaway includes a range of school supplies such as notebooks, pencils, crayons, folders, and more all aimed at setting students up for academic success. For more details or to inquire about the event, community members are encouraged to contact Katie McElhaney at kmcelhaney@ymcatulsa.org or by phone at 918-756-6677.
— Free Shoes, Socks and Books at First Presbyterian Church In another major show of support for Okmulgee County families, First Presbyterian Church will host a Backto School Giveaway on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at 401 S. Seminole Avenue in Okmulgee.
This event will provide free shoes, socks and books to school-aged children, from 4-year-old kindergarten through 12th grade.
Children must be present and accompanied by an adult to participate in the giveaway.
These two events reflect the deep sense of care and collaboration within the Okmulgee community. With rising costs for school essentials placing added pressure on many households, local organizations and volunteers are stepping forward to make sure every student has what they need to thrive in the classroom.
Whether it’s a backpack full of supplies or a new pair of sneakers, these giveaways offer more than material items – they offer hope, dignity and the reassurance that no family has to face the new school year alone.
Residents are encouraged to spread the word and help ensure that as many children as possible benefit from these generous community efforts.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, and take part in these two remarkable opportunities to give local students a strong start to the 2025-26 school year.
