Baltimore Ravens defensive back Cyrus Jones has always wanted to give back to the community that was a part of his youth. A Gillman High School product, Jones wanted to give back to back his hometown during the back to school season.
“Being back home, going into my fourth year has given me an opportunity to be in the community a lot,” said Jones.
His organization, the Cy. Jones Foundation partnered with Walmart and Catholic Charities of Maryland to host a backpack giveaway for 25 students in Baltimore.
Jones’ ties to Baltimore go beyond his high school years. He attended elementary and middle school at Leith Walk Elementary/Middle School in northeast Baltimore.
His mother, Tomika Jones who is the president of his foundation, spoke to the students about how Cyrus growing up in Baltimore. She said she raised him as a scholar-athlete. Jones is an example of how anyone who takes education seriously can be successful.
The kids were excited to meet Jones and took pictures with him after he spoke to them. Like his mother, Jones wanted to make sure the students understand the importance of being a scholar in addition to being an athlete. That’s why he made sure the backpacks were filled with the necessary school supplies for the students to use during the school year.
Unfortunately, some parents are unable to provide backpacks and supplies necessary for school. Organizations, like The Cy. Jones Foundation help to make sure that underprivileged students have the school supplies needed to help students to be successful.
The Cy. Jones Foundation (CJF), is a “community service and empowerment organization that offers hope and motivation to diverse, multi-ethnic, youth populations by creating innovative enrichment programs in education, sports, health, and wellness.” The foundation is dedicated to building self-confidence and instilling self-sufficiency in the lives of children and their families.
You can help The Cy. Jones Foundation to have an impact in the community by making a donation at www.cyjonesfoundation.org.