Update on the Back-to-School Drive
Dear MacPhail Community,
With a full heart and deep gratitude, I would like to say thank you to all who supported the Back-to School Drive. While this marks the end of a chapter, this is an opportunity to reflect on an incredible journey of community, generosity, and service.
The Back-to-School Drive began during one of the most uncertain and painful times in our recent history—amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd. It was born out of a collective desire to show up for one another, to lead with compassion, and to support our students, families, and educators in real, tangible ways.
Over the past five years, this initiative has grown beyond what I could have imagined.
Thanks to your unwavering support, we’ve:
- Raised over $20,000 in school supplies and financial donations.
- Built and strengthened meaningful partnerships with 18+ schools and community organizations
- Received a Minneapolis Foundation grant to deepen our impact.
- Worked with community organizations to spread the word about the Drive such as:
- Minnesota Youth Orchestra – Busked at the Farmer’s Market
- Mill City Farmer’s Market – as a designated drop off location for the Drive
- Mill City Singers – Donor
- Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board – Juneteenth celebration event
- Film North – as a designated drop off location for the Drive
- Cookie Cart – Cookie distributed to the donors and volunteers
- Jazz 88
- KMOJ Radio
- The Current
If you would like to continue supporting the schools and organizations we’ve worked with, I encourage you to reach out to them directly through the links below.
This drive has always been rooted in stewardship, equity, and the belief that every child deserves the tools to succeed. It has been a privilege to lead this effort and witness what we can achieve when we act as a unified community. Thank you to every person who donated, volunteered, spread the word, and helped keep this mission alive!
Your support and contributions surpassed expectations. Allowing us to meet our goals and strengthen our commitment to helping support these schools and organizations. You all are truly appreciated
With appreciation and love,
Jakkee-Patricia Phillips
Student Services Assistant Manager
DEI Committee Member
How You Can Help
Keep the impact going by donating to our partners directly!
- Pillars of Prospect Park Childcare (contact at the bottom of the page)
- VA Neighborhood Childcare Center (contact at the bottom of the page)