Thousands of students in Boston received free backpacks filled with essential school supplies as part of a back-to-school giveaway spearheaded by former New England Patriots player Matthew Slater. On September 4, 2023, just before the start of the school year, Slater partnered with the Corey C. Griffin Foundation, St. John Paul II Academy Lower Mills Campus, and the Massachusetts Association of Minority Law Enforcement Officers to distribute a total of 4,000 backpacks to local students in need.
The event aimed to prepare students for a successful academic year, ensuring they had the necessary materials to thrive both in and out of the classroom. Lisa Warshafsky, Principal of St. John Paul II Academy Lower Mills, emphasized the importance of providing students with access to educational resources. “We know that when students arrive to school ready to learn, with the materials and supplies that they need, we celebrate equal access for all students and that’s really what this event is about,” she stated.
Slater expressed his commitment to education and equality, stating, “Every child deserves a fair starting line when it comes to education. Just to be able to have the basic essentials when it comes to school, to be in a position to have success, is so important.” The backpacks, generously provided by New Balance, were filled with school supplies to help students start the year off right.
In addition to the backpack distribution, the event featured free haircuts, games, food, and an ice cream truck for the children. Chandra Clark, President of the Corey C. Griffin Foundation, highlighted the significance of the event for families, saying, “This event is so important to so many families because it allows the students to start the school year with excitement and knowing that there is individualized support.”
Over the past decade, the Corey C. Griffin Foundation has raised more than $60 million to support various initiatives aimed at benefiting children and families in need. Rob Griffin, the Foundation’s founder, remarked, “We’re blessed to be able to do it. We’ve been able to help and support these kids.”
As Boston Public Schools prepare to open their doors on Thursday, September 4, students with their new backpacks will be ready to embrace the challenges of the new school year. Slater expressed gratitude for the partnerships that made the event possible, stating, “Super appreciative of those folks that partner with us, including New Balance, Staples, and BJs. We all have a responsibility with what we’ve been given to impact the people around us.”
The event not only provided essential supplies but also fostered a sense of community among students, families, and local organizations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in supporting education and youth development.
