Tools 4 School: 25 Years of Community Support for Students in Need

By Leslie Hudgins

For 25 years, Davis Broadcastings’ "Tools 4 School" initiative has been a lifeline for students in need throughout the Tri-City Area. This annual event ensures kids start the school year with the essential supplies they need to succeed.

DBI Production Manager Gavon Henry shared that "Tools 4 School" is about giving every student the basics: paper, bags, pens, and crayons. The community comes together, collecting money and school supplies to distribute to local families. Davis hands out 500 to 600 bags filled with these essentials each year, tailored to different grade levels.

The program began 25 years ago, inspired by similar successful efforts in other areas. The idea for the event was initiated by radio personality and Station Director Micheal Soul. “I looked at what was happening in Philadelphia and thought, why not start here?” shared Soul. 

The first event occurred at the Walmart on Buena Vista Rd, known as the “Black Walmart,” where community members donated school supplies. The response was overwhelming, and the impact was immediate. “The teachers told us, ‘Thank you,’” shared Soul. “We didn’t realize students came to school on the first day without supplies.”

Starting with a few schools in underprivileged neighborhoods, the initiative quickly grew. According to Henry, this event is crucial for families struggling to afford school supplies. Many kids who benefited from "Tools for School" in the past return as donors, showing how the program creates a cycle of giving. One donor shared, “I was one of those kids. Here’s $20. I needed this stuff, so here you go.”

If you know a student in need of supplies the event will be held at the Columbus Public Library located at 3000 Macon Rd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. while supplies last. After Tools for School, there will be a "Movie Night Under the Stars," a fun, free event for families. For the past six or seven years, after the supplies are handed out, families gather on the lawn of the Columbus Public Library to watch a movie. This year, they're showing "Trolls Band Together." Henry said, “We’ll play music, do lawn dances, and then watch the movie. It’s a great way to end the day.”

Donations can be sent securely through the Foxy 105 FM website. You can also drop off school supplies at the DBI station located at 2203 Wynnton Rd. Nothing is too small; nothing is too big, and every bit helps.