Twitter

Will Allen Foundation's ‘PAK Program’ Provides School Supplies for Clairton Students and Teachers

The Clairton School District gymnasium was “PAKed” with Excitement recently as the Will Allen Foundation's Purposeful Acts of Kindness (PAK) program hosted its annual backpack and school supply distribution. The event, organized to uplift and encourage youth in under-resourced communities, left a profound impact on both students and educators in the community. Will Allen is committed to providing essential resources to students and alleviating the burden on families struggling with the high costs of school supplies. 

The distribution brought together Allen along with former Pittsburgh Steelers players Charlie Batch

and Arthur Moats to encourage students in their pursuit of education.

The PAK program, founded by former Pittsburgh Steelers player Will Allen, instills hope and

fosters positive influences in Western Pennsylvania communities. Recognizing the importance

of positive role models, the Will Allen Foundation has made a tangible difference in countless lives through its commitment to empowering youth and families. Since its inception, the Will Allen Foundation has distributed more than 4,000 backpacks to regional students.

"We firmly believe that every act of kindness has the potential to change the future of not just one person but an entire community," said Will Allen, Founder of the Will Allen Foundation. "Through PAK, we are committed to reducing educational barriers faced by under-resourced school districts in our region. By providing backpacks filled with school supplies, we aim to equip these students with the tools they need to excel in their studies and build a brighter future."

At the heart of this year’s distribution were 850 backpacks filled with school supplies, hand-delivered by Will Allen and several members of his Steelers family. As the students eagerly received their new school essentials, the sense of excitement and gratitude was palpable. The event emphasized the importance of community support and the positive impact of caring role models in shaping a brighter future for Clairton's youth.

Studies have shown that a lack of school supplies can adversely affect students' learning experience, hindering their academic progress and self-confidence. Moreover, the financial burden of purchasing school supplies can be overwhelming for many families, leaving them to make tough choices between rent, groceries, and educational essentials.

For educators, the impact of insufficient school supplies is equally significant. Classrooms often need more resources for interactive and hands-on learning experiences, posing challenges for teachers in fostering an optimal educational environment. That’s why the Will Allen Foundation expanded the PAK program this year and coordinated with local businesses to purchase classroom supplies and fulfill teacher wish lists.

"Investing in our teachers is equally crucial to fostering a nurturing learning environment," added Allen. "By supporting our educators with much-needed classroom supplies, we assist them in providing the best education possible to our students. Teachers are some of the most significant community assets.”

"The Will Allen Foundation's commitment to uplifting our community is truly inspiring," shared Dr.

Tamara Allen-Thomas, Superintendent of Clairton School District. "The support from local

businesses and former Steelers players not only provides our students with essential supplies

but also serves as a testament to the power of kindness and unity in creating a better future."

For more information about the Will Allen Foundation and its transformative initiatives, please

visit www.willallenfdn.org.

• < Prev
• Next >