Big Mama donating school supplies

HIALEAH, Fla. (WSVN) -- One of South Florida's favorite philanthropists is helping less fortunate kids by arranging to get them donated school supplies.

An expression of gratitude came from the children who received school supplies from Essie "Big Mama" Reed and David's Warehouse. "These are our children. This is our future, and this is what we are going to give our kids today, so they can be educated for success," said Big Mama.

At least a few hundred children showed up to shop for the goods they will need for a productive school year. "We got notebooks, pencils, erasers, crayons, everything you need for school," said Luna Mendez.

Big Mama called on some very generous friends to help her get the job done. "When Big Mama calls, I deliver," said DJ Billy Rice. "She said she needed help for children who lost things, and I stepped up."

Among those benefiting from the back to school giveaway was a family trying to recover from a crime. "You got good people in the world and bad people, and right now we're getting supported by some good people," said David Jenkins.

"These kids had a tragedy while they were participating in sports, somebody broke in their house and stole their school supplies," said Big Mama.

Big Mama is planning on more school supply giveaways in the coming days before school starts.

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