August 10, 2017 (Dallas, TX) — On August 7, 2017, Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities collaborated with the Dallas Independent School District and primary sponsor JCPenney to distribute 3,000 brand-new school uniforms worth $150,000 to students in seven elementary schools identified as high-need within the district. The Ellis Davis Field House was transformed into a “pop-up shop” to offer students from Carr Elementary, Jill Stone Elementary, Paul Dunbar Learning Center, Elisha Pease Elementary, Rice Elementary, McNair Elementary, and JW Ray Elementary a genuine shopping experience.
“This year’s back-to-school initiative marks our largest event to date. Our goal is to ensure as many children as possible start the school year positively—with joyful smiles, necessary eye glasses, fresh, clean uniforms, and nutritious meals. Our sponsors and partners recognize that with great gifts come great responsibilities; thanks to them, we are now in our fourth year supporting kids as they embark on their educational journeys. They continue to contribute because, like my wife Pat and I, they are passionate about the importance of a quality education,” explained Emmitt Smith.
This year’s lead sponsor and creative collaborator, Axxess, set up a station for arts and crafts along with face painting; DECA Dental offered dental screenings and related services; Essilor Vision conducted vision check-ups and supplied students with complimentary glasses; salon services and haircuts were provided by JCPenney and San Francisco Barbers; Albertsons/Tom Thumb prepared lunches and handed out healthful groceries for families to take home; McDonald’s gifted books to each student, and the Dallas ISD Community Police Team interacted with students and their families.
“What started with a single student seeking help for uniforms has now expanded to serve over 7,000 students of Dallas ISD with uniforms, free dental and vision screenings along with glasses, meals, and books. Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities have been instrumental in ‘Leading the Charge’ for the Dallas ISD,” remarked Superintendent Michael Hinojosa. He highlighted that over the last three years, the organization has provided more than 7,000 uniforms to those most in need. The district recognized Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities with the 2016 “Leading the Charge Award” for their efforts to work alongside community partners in support of students.
Rock-T from The Ricky Smiley Morning Show emceed the event, energizing attendees and building excitement for their shopping experience. Emmitt Smith honored Dr. Sulman Ahmed from DECA Dental and Carol Roberts from Albertsons with special recognition for their unwavering support of the Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities’ annual Back to School initiative over the past four years. Entertainment throughout the day included performances by the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, along with the Modern Band from Thomas Jefferson High School and the band from David W. Carter High School.
