FRISCO, Texas — As parents and students prepare for the first day of class, a group of community members came together to make sure ten boys living in foster care feel confident and prepared when they head back to school.
It was a blessing for 17-year-old Robert who lives in a group home for foster boys in Corsicana. Robert and nine of his friends got an exciting surprise just days before the start of school.
"When I heard about this it definitely got me excited," Robert said.
The JC Penney on Preston Rd in Frisco treated him and the rest of the teens in foster care to a shopping spree.
"I was really happy because I get to go back to school shopping and I don't have to worry about using my own money," said 17-year-old Marcos.
They also got fresh haircuts before their shopping spree.
"I really like it," said Marcos. "Hadn't had one in a while because I was trying to let my hair grow out but it got too hot."
The young men also shopped for brand-new shoes.
"I have new shoes and I'm prepared with all the clothes that I need," said 14-year-old Deandre.
Main Event Plano capped off a happy day with even more fun and games.
"Definitely shows me that people in the community really care and want us foster kids to have nice things and have fun and live like a normal kid," said Robert.
The special treatment was food for the souls of ten teenagers who have been through so much in their young lives.
"The last 5 years have been definitely a rollercoaster," said Marcos.
"Everybody's story is different. They come from different backgrounds," said Robert adding that the day made them feel special and loved.
It was also a reminder they are never alone.
"Thank you very much," said Marcos. "I feel really appreciative and can't thank y'all enough," he added echoing what everyone said about their special day.
Most importantly, all of these young men from Corsicana will walk into school on the first day filled with confidence, and a spirit of hope knowing they matter.
The Heart Gallery of North Texas would love to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the Back-to-School event possible for the young men at Encounters Residential Home. "ReBrand the Man," and " The Popular Nobody Brand" for the haircuts.
Target for providing the boys with essential hygiene products. JC Penney for their generous shopping spree, and Main Event in Plano and Frisco for offering a fun-filled evening and dinner.
For more information on how to get involved with helping foster youth, contact the Heart Gallery of North Texas at 817-809-3440 or email them at hello@heartgallerynorthtexas.org
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