DOWAGIAC — Last Thursday morning, the aisles of Target in Mishawaka were packed with first through fourth-grade students participating in Great Start 2019.

Presented by the McLoughlin Foundation, Great Start 2019 allowed 175 children from Dowagiac and Cassopolis to go on a $200 Target shopping spree last week. With the shopping spree, area children were able to pick up new clothing and supplies for the coming school year.

The McLoughlin Foundation has been hosting Great Start events since 2007. In total, the program has helped more 1,500 area students.

Above is Lailahana Peak, of Sam Adams Elementary, with Carmalita Wilson. (Leader photos/SARAH CULTON)