HUG DETROIT DAY VIRTUAL BLOCK PARTY & SCHOOL SUPPLIES DRIVE 2020

The 9th Annual HUG DETROIT DAY will take place, but in accordance with state and federal recommendations, physical hugs will be suspended, instead a Virtual Block Party with live and pre-recorded performances will be presented to spread news of the annual Backpack/School Supply Giveaway. Donations of backpacks, school supplies, books, and activity kits will be accepted at the Tangent Gallery from 4-10 pm the next two Sundays, August 16 and 23. Backpacks will be available after the event and in time for school.

Eight years ago, Sky Covington and Sheila Hale had the idea to put together a block party to play music and celebrate life in Detroit. Then, with the involvement and influence of friends and community members, a backpack giveaway became part of the festivities. Next a group of artists and agricultural vendors got in on the event.  “It really was the blessings and guidance of Isaac that gave the idea wings,” explain the Hug Detroit Day founders.  Meaning State Representative Isaac Robinson who passed away earlier this year not long after the last Hug Day Awards took place. “He was a great supporter and encourager of the projects going on at ground level throughout the city putting his stamp on whatever needed to be done to help.”

Erica Owens, (Suite 104 Productions / Frugal On The Fly) has graciously accepted the Hug Detroit Day Ambassador post as the organization flows positively through these pandemic puzzles.  This school year will be especially challenging so providing in-home support to young learners with the Hug Detroit Day backpack giveaway has become a heartfelt focus. Last year 400 students were blessed with backpacks from generous contributors! Activity kits are being added to the wish list since kids will need more at home educational adventures. If you are connected with an organization that would like to contribute please reach out through the website www.hugdetroitday.com. 

The Hug Detroit Day Virtual Block Party featuring Love Williams Band, Jazz vocalist Sky Covington, Aduni & Philharmonic, Blues singers Thornetta Davis, Tosha Owens, Cubie, Jai Fears, Fantastic Four, Rapper Rahc Wison, Ms Carmen ‘Songbird’ Diaz, Tim Ellerbe, Poet Goddess Tara, Speakers Shelly Lyon, Henrietta Ivey, Brenda Wilson Production and surprise guest will be aired August 23 from 4-10p on the Hug Detroit Day Facebook page. Like/Follow for updates on performance schedule, details about the backpack giveaway, and how to donate or go to: gofundme.com/f/hug-detroit-day-backpack-amp-school-supplies-drive

Every small gift matters!