Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities Host Back-To-School Shopping Event: Thousands of Underserved Youth Benefited

Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities have done it again. On August 17, 2016, in conjunction with Belk, TONI & GUY, Essilor Vision Foundation, San Francisco Barbershop of Dallas, DECA Dental, Tom Thumb grocery, and Albertson’s — over 1,200 underserved youth from two area Dallas ISD schools were provided with uniforms, vision and dental care, haircuts, groceries, and so much more at one of the most high-energy back-to-school events the district has seen.

Converting the Ellis Davis Field House into a massive pop-up shop, the back-to-school event featured a shopping experience like no other, chocked full with musical performances, entertainment, celebrity appearances, and support by some of the city’s most profound influencers.

Notoriously recognized as pillars within the community, Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities has partnered with Belk to distribute more than 3,600 uniforms to deserving DISD children over the past several years — a value of more than $177,000.

“To achieve your dreams, you must create a foundation for success that begins with education and good health,” said Emmitt Smith. “Families shouldn’t need to choose between clothes, medical services and other basic needs. This year’s back to school event was a true community partnership and shows how committed leaders in Dallas are to helping local students start the school year ready to learn. Pat and I are so pleased to see so many community partners come together to help these children start the school year off with new clothes and glasses, full bellies, and a healthy smile.”

A DISD student receives vision care by Essilor Vision during the Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities Back-To-School Event on August 17, 2016.

And all smiles it was. The Ellis Davis Field House was filled with enthusiasm as The Carter High School Marching Band, Mavs Dancers, Mavs Drumline, and Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders led the rally.

As families enjoyed a hearty breakfast, dental screenings, and new glasses for some, words by Emmitt Smith and other DISD dignitaries fostered hope for educational success throughout the building.

Ironically held on a rainy day, nothing but light and appreciative smiles shone from inside the field house as over 1,200 students from John Neely Bryan Elementary School and Boude Storey Middle School received new uniforms donated by Belk. As this initiative through Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities continues, it is predicted that even more families and underserved youth will receive assistance through these gracious efforts in the years to come.

For more information on Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, visit www.emmittsmith.com/pat-and-emmitt-smith-charities. Photos credit Marcy Meeks Photography.