Washington Commanders’ Martin holds ‘Tackle the School Year’ backpack drive
Washington Commanders safety and Fort Myers native Quan Martin returned to his hometown recently to kick off the school year with purpose.
In partnership with Walmart, Martin hosted the “Tackle the School Year” backpack drive at the Fort Myers Police Athletic League, providing 350 local students from kindergarten to 8th grade with backpacks filled with essential school supplies.
The event was more than a giveaway — it was a celebration of education and community. Kids selected their own backpacks, met Martin and enjoyed pizza and ice cream while gearing up for a strong academic start.
“Education is super important — it was important for me growing up,” said Martin. “I just wanted to let them know education is the gateway for a lot of things in life.”
Martin, a proud Lehigh Senior High graduate who attended the University of Illinois, is entering his third NFL season after helping the Commanders reach the NFC Championship game last season — and continues to give back to the community that helped shape him.