This past holiday season Puffer Reds was honored to to work with former Michigan State Representative,  Kirk Profit, and Ypsilanti educator and coach, Fred Jackson to give back and spread cheer amongst youth in our community.

Kirk Profit, an Ypsilanti native and graduate of Eastern Michigan University and The University of Detroit Mercy collaborates with Ypsilanti High School every Christmas to provide a number of teens with $300 stipends and a chance to shop for themselves and learn to spend their own money. He chooses Puffer Reds as the location for the teens to shop as we're both "popular among the youth" and a "local Ypsilanti business that has been in the community for decades"Fred Jackson, an Ypsilanti High School educator and coach, who formerly served as a Running Back coach for the University of Michigan works with Mr. Profit to help select students and helps to oversee and provide transportation for the program.

Upon arrival students were supported by various other educators, volunteers and Puffer Red's staff as they shopped the store and picked out items for themselves. For many students it is a first opportunity to learn both manage their own funds while also having the ability to choose what they want and express themselves through fashion choices. Refreshments were also provided for the students.

This event is one of Puffer Red's owner Eric Williams' favorite to assist in putting on, as we get to stay in touch with the youth in the community who support us everyday. We look forward to assisting Mr. Profit and Mr. Jackson in the event for years to come.