Blaze Assist Local Students in Back-to-School Shopping Spree
July 23, 2013 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY - On Tuesday, July 23, the Utah Blaze teamed up with the Salvation Army and Target to help underprivileged students gear up for the upcoming academic year with the Target School Spree. Each child, selected by The Salvation Army, was awarded an $81 Target Gift Card to purchase much-needed back-to-school supplies.
The entire Utah Blaze team, including players, dancers, and coaches, were on hand to guide the children around the Salt Lake City Target store, helping them pick out their back-to-school materials. "A lot of these kids don't necessarily have the resources to purchase clothing and necessities like backpacks, pencils, and books," said Cindie Quintana, the Salvation Army's Public Relations & Special Events Manager.
"It was huge having [the Utah Blaze] there. The kids just lit up, the staff lit up, and it just makes the experience that much more meaningful to the children."
"The first day of school can be an intimidating time. We wanted to make sure that everyone felt comfortable and prepared for this upcoming school year," said 2012 Arena Football League Community MVP David Hyland. "The kids got a chance to pick out the things that made them feel confident thanks to the Salvation Army and Target. I love working with the Salvation Army. They are a special group of people who help change lives daily."
Since 2009, Target has sponsored Target School Sprees to help prepare children for the first day of school. As part the Target School Spree program, Target has awarded The Salvation Army nationwide $1 million to cover Target Gift Cards and transportation costs. Nearly 500 Target stores will participate in the Target School Spree event between July 15 and August 15 in select regions across the country.
The Utah Blaze return to the field for the 2013 season finale this Saturday, July 27, as they host the Cleveland Gladiators at EnergySolutions Arena. To cap off the day's events, each student will receive tickets for their entire family to come watch the game.
• Discuss this story on the Arena Football League message board...
Arena Football League Stories from July 23, 2013
- Thomas Claiborne Returns from Inactive Reserve - Jacksonville Sharks
- Blaze Assist Local Students in Back-to-School Shopping Spree - Utah Blaze
- Storm Heads To Jacksonville For Regular Season Finale - Tampa Bay Storm
- Dieker Named Russell Offensive Player of the Week - Cleveland Gladiators
- Talons to Host Community Pep Rally at Halo Lounge - San Antonio Talons
- ArenaBowl XXVI Postgame Show to Air Nationally on CBS Sports Network - AFL
- Spokane Snags Top Spot in AFL vPower Rankings - AFL
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
