As the start of a new school year draws near, Des Moines Public Schools was honored to host Caitlin Clark at North High School today for a back-to-school backpack giveaway by the Caitlin Clark Foundation. More than 300 Des Moines area students received backpacks and supplies at the event.
“Caitlin Clark is not only own of the world’s most talented and best known athletes, she is also a generous soul,” said Dr. Ian Roberts, superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. “She knows that when you succeed, you should give a little something back to help others succeed, and that’s exactly what she did today. We were excited to welcome Caitlin to North High School today to meet students from across the district, and are honored to count the Caitlin Clark Foundation as a new DMPS partner in our important work of provding a quality education to the students of Des Moines.”
The following is a press release from the Caitlin Clark Foundation about the event and the donation followed by photos from the event
THE CAITLIN CLARK FOUNDATION HOSTS BACK TO SCHOOL BACKPACKS EVENT
Friday afternoon on August 2, 2024, was a special day at North High School. As part of The Caitlin Clark Foundation’s ‘Back To School Backpacks’ initiative, over 350 backpacks, filled with all the necessary school supplies, were distributed to public and parochial students in the local Des Moines community. Clark herself made a surprise appearance, providing the students encouragement and motivation for the upcoming school year.
“I know how fortunate I was to have a strong education and access to tools that allowed me to be successful in the classroom,” said Caitlin Clark. “School supplies are essential for every student’s learning and development, and The Caitlin Clark Foundation is grateful to our sponsors for their support in making this event possible.”
Nike provided the backpacks for the students, Hy-Vee donated the integral school supplies, and Gatorade provided a water bottle in every bag.
The Caitlin Clark Foundation is centered around three pillars – education, nutrition and sport. The Foundation is passionate about helping students be successful in school and gaining the confidence that comes from learning.
About the Caitlin Clark Foundation:
The Caitlin Clark Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the mission of uplifting and improving the lives of youth and their communities through education, nutrition, and sport – three strategic pillars Caitlin believes were foundational in her success. Caitlin is enthusiastic about supporting young adults in their pursuit of excellence, both on and off the court. Through various initiatives, including educational programs and sport camps, food drives, clothing and gear donations and overall community outreach, the foundation strives to make a positive impact in the lives of youth.