On September 16, 2022, the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation partnered with the Children First Fund, Chicago Public Schools, and the Chicago Vocational Career Academy to deliver more than 100 backpacks and 2,400 school supplies before the new school year. Employees from Amazon and Dish also volunteered their time to join the donation ceremony.

Sharing Hope to the City

WeLoveU volunteers gathered for the event at the Chicago Vocational Career Academy, a public high school on the south side. Volunteers went the extra mile, setting up balloons and smiling throughout the day. They spoke words of encouragement, sharing hope and joy with the students. Alderman Michelle A. Harris of Chicago’s 8th Ward participated in the event and said, “This is something different in the world we live in; to get people that care about our youth and want to give something back to our community.”

Making A Difference

The project aims to alleviate the financial impact families in under-resourced communities face during back-to-school shopping. Research shows that back-to-school supply spending has increased by 22% since 2019. Principal Douglas L. Macklin of the Chicago Vocational Career Academy said, “With the student population being at an economically disadvantaged level, to have partners directly recognize that need is so valuable.”

United Effort to Close the Gap

The backpack donation is part of WeLoveU’s Closing the Homework Gap: Packs on Backs and Tools for Schools campaign. This campaign helps thousands of students across the country receive new backpacks and school supplies. WeLoveU strives to continuously support the Chicago community to give happiness and sustainable education to students.