Chicago Bear delivers pro apparel to Allendale kids
Imagine the confidence boost of going on your first job interview in a suit given to you by Bears' middle linebacker D.J. Williams. Or lacing up a pair of Brandon Marshall's athletic shoes before your big game. For some lucky Allendale students, that's about to become a reality.
Williams and linebacker teammate Darryl Sharpton brought the Home Team Closet initiative to the students of Allendale. Under this program, he and his fellow Bears donated their personal new and like-new clothing and shoes to underprivileged male teenagers who are earning good grades in school.
"We get lots of shoes and clothes from companies like Nike and Reebok because we're pro athletes," Williams said. "We asked guys on the team to clean out their closet and share what they don't need."
Celebrity athletes constantly receive gifts of apparel from designers and manufacturers who hope they'll be seen wearing it. Williams' mom first conceived of the program as a way to put these items - many which go unworn - to good use.
But Williams doesn't just donate the clothing. He personally delivers it, sets up a little "store," and acts as the boys' personal shopper, helping them pick things out one teen at a time.
Encouraging them to make good life choices, he asks each boy to take a suit or dress item along with some athletic wear in preparation for future job or college interviews.
During his first event, held in Chicago last autumn, Williams invited Brandon Marshall and Tim Jennings to contribute, too. Between the three of them, they donated more than 500 items.
"Our big vision is to have a bin in every locker room of every pro sport," Williams said. "If we do that, we can help a lot of people."
In December, Williams brought approximately 500 items, including suits, sweaters, shoes, and athletic apparel to Allendale. This included items from his own clothing line, Dyme Lyfe, which encourages a positive outlook and lifestyle.
Williams not only brought clothing but provided a pizza party for the kids as well.