Temple University’s Department of Public Safety (TUDPS) partnered with Temple football, women’s track and other students to deliver thousands of books to elementary school students in North Philadelphia ahead of Read Across America Week, which begins March 2.

“We wanted these young students to get excited for Read Across America Week, which celebrates the author Dr. Seuss. At Dunbar, the entire month of March is dedicated to reading, so we wanted to help the students with their reading challenge,” said Michael Smith, deputy chief of police for TUDPS.

The groups came together and formed a human chain outside of Paul L. Dunbar School, located just off campus. The chain extended into the school to quickly carry 3,000 books from a truck to inside the school.

Evan Simon, Temple football’s quarterback, said he and his team were eager to roll up their sleeves to support Dunbar’s students.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for us as a football team to serve our community. We had a great time distributing all those books and reading to the children,” Simon said. 

To celebrate Read Across America, Dunbar is asking students to read every day in March for 15 minutes.

“Read Across America is extra special to me, because in addition to being a Temple University police captain, I’m also a father and grandfather, and I know the importance of encouraging young people to read,” said Temple University Police Officer Leroy Wimberly. 

The books were provided by TUDPS through a donation from Toys for Tots. Each student was able to select a few books to take home. 

“Today means a lot. We’ve had the support and partnership through Temple Public Safety for years now. Giving students the ability to build their home libraries is phenomenal. It’s going to boost their interest in reading and learning,” said Linnea Hunter, an English teacher at Dunbar. 

Temple Athletics brought in its entire team of football players and coaches and women’s track athletes to show young students role models within their community. 

“It’s important for Athletics that we are intertwined within the North Philadelphia community. We have more than 100 people on our football team, and we love to support our community. Events like these also build comradery among our players, coaches and staff,” said football Head Coach K.C. Keeler.

James Hennigan, TUDPS’ captain of patrols, said his department has a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the North Philadelphia community and law enforcement. 

“It’s our hope that these books help the youngest members of our community to foster a love for reading,” Hennigan said. “Temple police officers work hard every day to make the North Philadelphia community a safer place to live, work and learn. We’re proud to serve our community.”

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