Steve Smith Foundation, nonprofits host gift-wrapping event for homeless children

CHARLOTTE — The Steve Smith Family Foundation, Urban League of Central Carolinas and Trane Technologies came together Saturday to wrap gifts for homeless children in uptown.

The event benefited 100 homeless children attending the Steve Smith Foundation’s Virtual Learning Support Center.

Volunteers, Trane employees and parents wrapped toys, clothing and supplies that were donated by companies including Trane Technologies, Truist, Made To Last Tattoo and Urban League.

Trane is also making a financial contribution toward the virtual learning center.

Studies show that homeless students are more likely to underperform in reading and math. With Charlotte-Mecklenburg School’s recent move to all-virtual learning, homeless students are at risk of falling further behind due to lack of stable housing, a dedicated workspace to do schoolwork, support at home, and access to meal services that they would normally receive at school.

The Steve Smith Foundation assists children who fall under the The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. In Charlotte, the McKinney-Vento Program addresses the needs of homeless students attending CMS by tackling challenges and issues affecting their success in school.

8-year-old boy spends birthday handing out pizza to people living in ‘tent city’ in uptown

Cox Media Group