Teens pack over 300 bags of toiletries for distribution at Chicago shelters

CHICAGO – Over 300 bags filled with items like toothbrushes and deodorant are ready to go to people in need thanks to the help of dozens of teenagers.

Behind every bag packed at a community service event in Bronzeville on Saturday was a teen looking to help someone in need.

“I’m so happy that I get to be here and serve my community, especially for communities that have provided me opportunities and have served me,” participant Cree Hampton said.

Over 100 middle and high school students packed the gum at Bronzeville Classical Elementary School, forming an assembly line to pack bags with toiletries and everyday necessities.

They also had stations set up for the girls to write inspirational letters and place them in bags.

“My letter was ‘Dear Black Queen’ or ‘Dear Queen.’ I said that you can do this. Do not let anyone take away your shine, and just know that it’s not over yet,” participant Kennedy Ray said.

Ladies of Virtue, a nonprofit organization that provides mentorship opportunities and resources to Black girls on Chicago’s South and West sides, organized the event.

“Community service is something that is really important to Ladies of Virtue. We want our girls to know that it’s important to pour back into the people and communities that have made them,” Ladies of Virtue Program Manager Brittany Taylor said.

Organizers hope Saturday’s event teaches girls in the room and beyond that they’re never too young to help someone else. The event also came at a time where hundreds of Chicago’s teens have taken part in large neighborhood gatherings known as teen takeovers.

“I think that it’s easy to put all teens into a box and say we’re all rowdy or we’re all doing things that we shouldn’t be doing, but this organization gives guidance and this program has shown how guidance can impact,” Hampton said.

The bags will be delivered on Tuesday to two different shelters in Chicago.