Macy's Helps MLK Ready for School Year

Preparing for a new school year is an exciting, and often stressful, time for many families. For many youth, a successful year begins with the basics – clothing, shoes, reading glasses, supplies. Through partnerships and philanthropic giving, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond helps young people enter the school year with confidence.

Macy’s Short Pump Town Center recently donated $5,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond and hosted an exclusive back-to-school shopping experience for 25 young people from the Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School Club.

“The shopping trip evoked a ton of emotions along with gratitude from our Club members. While taking the ride to Macy's, some of the kids’ anxieties were up due to them never visiting a Macy's,” said Jennifer Ponton, senior program director at MLK. “Once we arrived at the store and were greeted by the Macy's team, they immediately became comfortable, excited and engaged in the shopping experience. I spoke when several members after the event and they shared with me, that it really meant a lot to them, because they felt like that there was someone that actually cared about them enough to give them this type of experience. In speaking with a parent, she shared that it really made her heart melt that Macy's would bless the community and give back in such a grand way.”

Macy’s made it a morning to remember, rolling out the red carpet for the members and greeting them with personalized signs and cheers as they entered the store.

Each member received a gift card and paired with a Macy’s employee who provided a personal shopping experience.

Once their new wardrobes were complete, members were able to take advantage of a yoga session provided Yoga Joy Kids Studio, get their portrait drawn by a local artist, and have lunch at a local food truck.

Some were even interviewed by the local media, check out the story here and browse the photo gallery.

Damarcus chats with WTVR/CBS6.

“This event allows our Club members to return to school looking, and feeling, confident,” said Ms. Ponton. “If this shopping event didn't happen, some of them would not be able to step into the new school year with anything. That would have been their true reality.”

A special thank you to Macy’s store manager Tracey Kennedy and the entire Short Pump staff for creating an unforgettable experience for the MLK members and helping them start the school year off in a positive way.