Back to school is a call to action for faculty, students and staff members of Temple’s College of Public Health, School of Social Work, College of Education and Human Development, Black Student Union (BSU), and Community Gateway. The teams are joining forces to collect school supplies and uniforms to be donated to students in the School District of Philadelphia. 

 This spirited collaboration is bringing a wave of generosity to North Philadelphia students. The university teams hope to collect boxes brimming with notebooks, pencils and clothing, with each item being a testament to the collective commitment to education and community support. This initiative, born out of a shared desire to make a difference, embodies the true spirit of Temple University’s dedication to its neighbors.  

The collection idea originated with the BSU in 2023 when they approached their faculty advisor DaVonti’ Haynes, a professor in the School of Social Work, for support. The students and Haynes set up donations through an online retailer.  

“The Black Student Union recognizes the massive inequality that exists within the School District of Philadelphia where marginalized students are not afforded adequate resources for the school year,” said Zachary Mattis, president of BSU. “Thus, Temple University’s Black Student Union recognized this issue and took on the task of addressing the need for better access to schooling equipment for students in Philadelphia.  

“As African American students, we see that it is our responsibility to demonstrate our commitment to the community we reside in and serve it. Therefore, the Back-to-school Supply Drive should not be seen as charity work but a calling to organize in a manner that addresses the needs of the community," Mattis said. 

The first year’s supplies went to students at Paul L. Dunbar School near Temple’s campus. This year, the Community Gateway and the College of Education and Human Development joined the effort, allowing the program to expand its reach. By pooling resources and fostering a collaborative spirit, the strengthened partnership will enable the initiative to provide even more school supplies to students, ensuring they have the tools necessary for academic success.  

“This year marks our first year participating in the school supply drive, and we are thrilled to join forces with Temple’s School of Social Work, Black Student Union and Community Gateway to support the students in the School District of Philadelphia. Our collective efforts will ensure these young scholars have the necessary tools and uniforms to start the school year strong. We believe in the power of community and education, and we can make a significant impact together,” said Monika Williams Shealey, dean of the College of Education and Human Development. 

Donating school supplies not only alleviates the financial burden on families but also empowers students by boosting their confidence and readiness for the school year, organizers said. It strengthens the bond between the university and the local community, fostering a culture of support and shared responsibility. The project is designed to make a significant impact on the lives of young learners, promoting educational equity and nurturing the next generation of leaders. Donations will be accepted through Aug. 22 in anticipation of public school classes starting Aug. 26, Haynes said. 

“This effort just highlights the giving spirit of our students and the university and our commitment to the North Philadelphia community,” said Haynes, who is the program director for the master’s in social work. “We want to support the community in a lot of different ways.” 

The Office of Community Affairs and Engagement will continue to provide school supplies to youth at Duckrey Elementary School and the Salvation Army in partnership with the Fresh Grocer. The office has been a supporter of Duckrey for several years and donates school supplies and other resources for graduation ceremonies and school trips throughout the academic year. The office is also providing supplies to the office of state Senator Sharif Street for distribution at community events in August.  

“The school supply projects, which launched several years ago, are not just about gathering supplies; the effort is part of a larger vision that fosters a sense of unity and purpose,” said coordinator Andrea Swan, Temple’s director of community and neighborhood affairs. “We want to ensure that our young neighbors are equipped for the academic year. We also want to instill an affinity for Temple at an early age with the hopes that our community will be a part of the students’ academic future.”  

Donations through Community Affairs are being accepted until the end of August. Contact Andrea Swan at aswan@temple.edu or 215-204-7409 for more details.