Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison hosts back-to-school event
Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison and his I Am Gifted Foundation joined forces with The Salvation Army for a back-to-school event Aug. 30 at Garden City Elementary School in Brooklyn Center, where more than 200 students received all they need for a successful start to the new school year. (See photos.)
A dozen Salvation Army volunteers helped facilitate the event, including the distribution of Crocs-brand shoes, Bombas-brand socks, and 250 backpacks filled with school supplies.
The event also featured free haircuts and hot meals.
“It’s an awesome thing for us to partner with The Salvation Army and give back,” Maddison said (watch Fox 9 News clip). “For us to give out all these backpacks and supplies is beyond what I ever imagined I could do with my platform. I’m blessed to be in this position.”
Every August, The Salvation Army and our partners provide back-to-school supplies for thousands of kids throughout Minnesota, thanks to your gifts.
These events help people like Lauren in Brooklyn Park.
“We appreciate this service so, so much,” said Lauren, a mother who has struggled financially as back-to-school expenses have increased nearly 28 percent since 2019.
Thousands of other families are feeling the same financial pressure. The Salvation Army is able to give them relief because of your donations and help from people like Mattison.
“As inflation continues, many local families do not have enough money to pay for basic needs items – let alone school supplies,” said Lt. Col. Randall Polsley, leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division. “Providing school supplies to these families will allow their children to start the school year focused and prepared.”
Please join The Salvation Army by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer. With your help, we can show families in need that there is Love Beyond their most difficult hardships.