Bulls player helps give Chicago Public Schools students cold weather gear, school supplies

CHICAGO (WLS) -- It was an exciting day for Damarrius Burkes.

"It's a nice coat. It's a nice coat. I like it here," Burkes said.

Tuesday's lesson for the Roswell Mason Elementary School student and his classmates included learning about the gift of giving as they received winter essentials and more.

"I'm actually excited to see a lot of people care for us, and our community is able to come out and get us what we need," said student Anajha Rucker.

It happened because of the generosity of Chicago Bulls player Jevon Carter.

"We wanted to give you guys gear, you know, prepare for the brutal winter in Chicago. I know how it is, growing up here, and it's just a blessing to come here and help you guys out, so I hope you guys enjoy it," Carter said.

Through his Treadmill Mentality Foundation, the nonprofit he started in March, the point guard gave all of the school's 250 students cold weather gear.

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"Thanks to everyone who donated and supported the whole funding program. It was a big blessing," said Aaliyah Bradley, the mother of two students.

This is the first year the organization has partnered with the West Side grade school.

"We never say no. Our families can benefit from anything," said Roswell Mason Elementary School Principal Tonya Tolbert.

Carter grew up in west suburban Maywood, about 20 minutes away from the Chicago public school.

"I think it's just important for the kids to see someone that looks like them, and to know it's possible to do anything," said - Treadmill Mentality Foundation co-founder Taylor Houston.

The Bulls supported the effort, along with The Enchanted Backpack, which has helped over 300,000 students in 300 schools since 2017.

"This school is under-resourced," said The Enchanted Backpack Co-Director Jacob Mayer. "Lots of times, a kid's gotten a jacket for the first time that doesn't have someone else's name written in it, or the jacket actually fits them."

Every kid got a brand new winter coat, a Bulls beanie and more. Those who attended said it's a game-changer.

"It takes that emotional baggage off of them so they can concentrate on academics," said Roswell Mason Elementary School teacher Angela Bradley.

The students also received much needed school supplies.

This thankful school community hopes Tuesday's generosity wasn't just a one-time thing. Organizers of the giveaway said the event is proof Chicago families still have a lot of need.