Viktor
Well-known member
- Mar 19, 2019
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He spent more than an hour visiting with teachers, students and families as young people picked up their coats. They also received a Vikings drawstring bag and stocking hat.
"Everyone's been thanking me for showing up. It's a big thing, I think," Kendricks said. "But I think it's a big thing for me, as well. I've been thanking them right back."
Like many schools across the country, Cityview has adapted due to the coronavirus pandemic. Currently, the school's 327 students (ages kindergarten-fifth grade) are distance-learning. A plan is in-place to begin a tutoring program and hopefully slowly transition back to some level of in-person education.
Cityview Principal Renee Montague appreciated that Kendricks' coat drive offered a safe opportunity for in-person interaction, albeit brief.
"This is a plus. We get to say hi to our parents," Montague said. "It's different when you're on a screen versus being [in-person]. We need that connection; we need that interaction."
The coats, she explained, will be a welcomed and practical gift for so many families in the community.
"We're just making sure they have everything they need to be successful. So this is big for us," Montague said. "My kids' parents do appreciate things like this. Two parents came up to me separately today and said, 'We are blessed.' And I said, 'Yes we are.' "
Montague was impressed by Kendricks' down-to-earth nature and authentic interactions with each individual who stopped by for a coat, a photo or just to say hello to an All-Pro linebacker.
"That was really nice. He didn't mind taking pictures with them … and that was a big deal for us," Montague said. "I was hoping he wouldn't turn anybody away, and he didn't. He seemed to feel connected, and I seriously appreciate that."
At his core, it's just who Kendricks is.
"I think it's just so important to continue to show people that we are humans and normal people just like them. We all have the same needs," Kendricks said. "I just [want] to show them that we're there to support them in that way.
"Obviously we can't do everything, but if we can lend our support by just being there, or giving some words, or even financially, then [that is] great," he added.