WELCOME TO PROJECT APPLE TREE!

Project Apple Tree is a ministry of Helping Hands Ministry of Belton devoted to partnering with local families in Belton ISD, Academy ISD and Holland ISD to prepare students for success in school and beyond. Founded by retired educator Jeannette Kelley, Project Apple Tree began with a simple goal: to ensure every child starts school prepared and confident by providing supplies, backpacks, and shoes. For over 20 years, with the support of volunteers, churches, and local partners, the program has served thousands of students.

As our community continues to grow, Helping Hands Ministry remains committed to equipping families with the resources and support their children need to thrive. We’ve expanded to combat weekend food insecurity by partnering with Belton ISD to provide weekend snack packs for students at Southwest Elementary, Hubbard Branch Elementary, Chisholm Trail Elementary, South Belton Middle School, and Belton High School. A weekend meal bag includes a combination of breakfast items, protein items, juice, fruit, and snacks. Weekend meal bag food is provided and packed by Helping Hands Ministry of Belton and distributed by Counselors at the school to students in need.

GEARING UP FOR THE 2026-27 SCHOOL YEAR

School supply registration is open April 6 – May 8, 2026, for students registered in Pre-K through 12th grade in Belton ISD, Academy ISD, and Holland ISD only.

Each student will receive a school supply pack based on their grade and school district.

Distribution, dates to be determined:

  • Belton ISD Pre-K–5th grade: Supplies will be delivered to the students’ school

  • Belton ISD 6–12th grade, Academy ISD, and Holland ISD: Supplies must be picked up at Helping Hands Ministry

Cost: $5 per child (maximum $20 per family)

Please be sure to enter all information correctly if anything changes before school starts (ex: school for the upcoming year), email info@helpinghandsbelton.org ASAP.

Save the date: Shoe and backpack registration will open June 1 - July 17, 2026!


SPONSOR A STUDENT!

There are several ways you can help set a student up for success in the 2026-27 school year!

  • Purchase a new backpack and bring it to Helping Hands Ministry

  • Purchase a new pair of sneakers or socks and bring it to Helping Hands Ministry or shop our wishlists below

  • Cover the costs for a student’s school supplies, backpack, and a new pair of shoes ($50)

  • $5 purchases a weekend snack pack for one student, or $180 purchases a student’s weekend snack packs for the full school year.