Community members lined up to loudly cheer on students at Mount View Elementary on their first day back to school.

Those in line missed the annual event last year because of the pandemic.

"This is one of the highlights of the year to come down here and welcome the kids back," said Charles Wilson.
​
The local groups Black Men United partnered with the Black Star Project and Fathers Incorporated.
It's part of the national effort known as the Million Fathers March. Fathers are encouraged to take their kids to school on the first day and pledge ten hours of community service at their child's school. They point to the benefits of having a father figure in a child's life.

"No matter if it's your kid or another kid, having a dad there has always been a good thing especially as far as self-esteem building and kids feeling supported," said State Senator Terrell McKinney.

Recent Stories from 3newsnow.com 

​Legislative Bill 451, introduced by State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha, would expand existing laws banning racial discrimination in employment. The measure passed on a 40-4 vote. It would define race to include hair texture and protective hairstyles, such as braids, locks and twists.

VICTORY natural hair is protected in Nebraska!!!!! "I love my HAIR!"

Thanks for all of your hard work Sen. McKinney!

​Black Men United is a grassroots organization focused on supporting the growth and development of Black men across Omaha. Today was an example of their work extending into other parts of the community.

The summer temperatures may be rising but it’s all worth it when it comes to helping people in need.

“We just love the smiles on people’s faces.”

Cars stack up in long lines in North Omaha for the Black Men United’s drive-thru pantry. Numerous families are able to get the things they need for their loved ones.

“We want to be able to provide food, other care items like detergent, dishwashing liquid, and cleaning detergent,” said Willie Hamilton, President, and Founder of Black Men United.

​Because of this nonprofit’s selflessness and events like this, they received a resolution from the state presented by State Senator Terrell McKinney. He says the award was well deserved.

“It’s just the work they’ve done throughout the year. You know out it the cold, it’s freezing out here. Giving food out here in the rain, so it’s much appreciated,” said McKinney.

Hamilton says he’s very excited they got the award but gives a lot of credit to volunteers.

“They’re the ones who earned the award. They come down on their day off, they come down on the weekend and just to be able to provide services and food to any business in the most need,” said Hamilton.

Even though they got this honor for their hard work during the pandemic, there are no plans to slow down.

“It’s our responsibility as an organization to be able to give back and food pantry is just one way of doing that.”

To ensure they continue serving communities, Black Men United partnered with a food bank and was just certified through the U.D.S.A. The pantry is held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month.

Omaha grassroots organization hosts food pantry (wowt.com)
​
Copyright 2021 WOWT. All rights reserved.

Its that time of year to help protect, support,celebrate Mothers on Mother Day  who have  lost a love one to violence. join us May 9, 2015 at Goodwill Industries located on 72nd Ames Street  from 11am-2pm as we honor Mothers. Join keynote  speaker Shawntel Mallory Smith and Clarice Jackson Special guest speaker for this phenomenal event. Hope to see you there to learn more and to donate  visit www.blackmenunited.org