Omegas Provide School Supplies, Haircuts for Local Students

Photo caption: Brothers of the Psi Phi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. stuff backpacks as students line up outside. 

WINSTON-SALEM, NC ⸺ Members of the Psi Phi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. made sure students had the necessary school supplies – as well as a fresh look – when they returned to class after the summer break. This month, Psi Phi, in conjunction with local organizations and businesses, handed out more than 300 backpacks to students. In conjunction with Operation Home Front and Dollar Tree Stores, the chapter collected school supplies from eight stores throughout the area for students of all grade levels. 

Fraternity members met at the Omega Friendship Center on Patterson and filled more than 200 backpacks with school. An additional 100 backpacks from local law enforcement brought the total to 300 backpacks distributed on August 5 in conjunction with the National Night Out. Murray Miller, chair of the Social Action committee that coordinated the event, also expressed gratitude to Studio Kimiko hair salon of Winston-Salem for a donation of more than a dozen backpacks.

 “We do this in the spirit of uplifting our community,” Miller said. “One of Psi Phi chapter’s goals is to make a positive impact in our community.” 

A week later, the Winston-Salem REACH Foundation partnered with Dynasty Barbershop to provide free haircuts to about a dozen youths, making sure the students had fresh haircuts to go with their swag as they began to school year. Richard Watkins, the chapter basileus and president of REACH, said this is another example of supporting the community and local Black-owned businesses. 

“As many families have been forced to tighten their budgets, the school supply giveaway provides much-needed relief,” he said. “And, of course, what young man doesn’t want to show up on the first day of school with a fresh cut. Many thanks to Brother Marc Raye and Dynasty Barbershop. Your support ensures our young men step into the school year with confidence, pride, and a winning attitude.”

Psi Phi remains intentional about the support of education and local businesses. In May, the chapter provided $11,000 in scholarships to 11 local high school students and donated $2,000 to Cook Literacy Model School – formerly Cook Elementary School. In February, the chapter coordinated several initiatives to support local business establishments. 

Mr. Richard L. Williams.