FLORIDA TECHNICAL COLLEGE AND THE MIAMI DOLPHINS HOST FIRST BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENT
In an effort to ensure students have the resources needed to succeed in the classroom, Florida Technical College (FTC) and the Miami Dolphins joined forces to host “Fuel for the Brain and Body” back-to-school event today. During the event, a total of 1,000 backpacks and 1,000 packaged meals were distributed on a first come, first served basis. The drive-up event took place on Friday, August 20 at Southland Mall on S. Dixie Highway, Miami.
“School starts on Monday and we want to make sure students return to school with the tools they need to start the school year with confidence,” stated Dr. James Michael Burkett, president of FTC. “Thanks to our partnership with the Miami Dolphins, 1,000 families will be able to send their kids to school on the first day, fully prepared for school.”
Free backpacks were distributed to school aged children. In partnership with the Miami Dolphins Foundation Food Relief Program, 1,000 hot meals were prepared by Mike and Jackie’s BBQ & Catering and distributed to the children and families in attendance.
“We are delighted to partner with FTC through our Food Relief Program to be a resource for families and local minority-owned businesses in our community,” said Miami Dolphins Senior Vice President of Communications and Community Affairs Jason Jenkins. “It was rewarding to see everyone come together in support of these students to distribute meals and school supplies as they return to school this fall.”
Upon arrival at the drive-thru event, families were greeted by the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders with meals and backpacks that were then loaded in the trunk or bed of their vehicle.
This initiative was part of a partnership agreement signed earlier this year between the educational institution and sports franchise, which aims to provide meals and essential resources to families in need in South Florida.
