News Article - 3 minute read

On August 3, 2024, Sigma Mu Mu Chapter, Third District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., conducted its annual Backpack and School Supplies Drive. Sigma Mu Mu conducted this year’s drive through Operation Uplift, its charitable foundation, and in partnership with Staples Store
#1094 in Leesburg, VA. In an effort to maximize donations, the chapter also collaborated with the Washington Commanders to attract and inspire fans to donate who otherwise might not do so.  The Drive was conveniently timed to coincide with Virginia’s Tax-Free Weekend and back-to-school sales at local Staples stores. More than five (5) shopping carts full of school supplies were collected, including dozens of backpacks and hundreds of other items, all of which were distributed to local elementary schools and families in need.

Brothers Paul Douglas, Willie Hassell, Leroy Ross, Brian Porter, Jerome Smith, and Joseph Smith manned the chapter’s display in front of Store #1094. They engaged with Staples shoppers on the sunny Saturday morning, offering water and other hydration drinks to help the customers deal with the heat. Store Manager Farid Buncin was a constant presence at the Drive,  encouraging both customers and the Sigma Mu Mu volunteers. He highlighted deals in the
Staples weekly sales ads and pointed out the most popular items on the Loudoun County Public Schools school supply lists. One customer noted: "It is so important to make sure that the children have everything they need for school.  You men are doing an amazing job!"

The customer’s comment pointed to the importance and impact of this annual chapter activity.Even in Loudoun County, one of the richest counties in the United States, 16.73% of its students live in poverty, according to the Virginia Department of Education. While the links between poverty and academic achievement have been well-documented, the mental health and emotional impacts cannot be ignored. Children feel embarrassed asking to borrow a pencil or paper every
day, and can be subjected to ridicule for not having a backpack in which to carry their books and supplies. According to teachers on the website of Donors Choose, a United States–based nonprofit organization that allows individuals to donate directly to public school classroom projects, the stress of feeling left out and different can lead to lack of focus. Being prepared keeps children motivated and excited. Studies show that children having school supplies of their
own can result in improved grades, creativity, attitudes towards learning, behavior, peer relationships and self-image of those students.

The Annual Backpack and School Supply Drive complements the chapter’s multiple events that support youth throughout Loudoun County in their pursuit of scholastic achievement. By donating backpacks and school supplies to those in need, Sigma Mu Mu enabled potential benefits noted above for the many recipients, and better prepared those students for the new school year.