A backpack was distributed at Concourse Village on Saturday to help children in the community and honor the legacy of a young athlete who was shot and killed.
More than 100 children lined up to collect free backpacks and school supplies ahead of the school year.
“It’s a safe haven for our kids. We want to keep them out of trouble, we want to show them that we love them and care about them, and that’s my son Brandon Hendricks’ legacy,” said Eve Hendricks.
Children of all ages came to take a backpack and filled it with school supplies like notebooks, pencils and erasers.
Hendricks said she fulfills her son’s mission to give back to the community.
“Since he’s not here, I, as his mother, keep that promise,” she said.
“This is what he expects, we are doing the work that Brandon has already inspired himself to do. So for us to do this is how we create his legacy to continue,” his best friend said, Francisco Alfonte.
Hendricks also hopes the event will help calm the growing gun violence plaguing the city.
“We don’t need to go out there and murder each other senselessly. If you have a problem, talk to someone. Enough is enough, it’s time to end gun violence “, said Hendricks.
Hendricks continues to fight for justice for his son. The trial of his alleged killer will take place later in September.
