Meet Tamir Lewis, the 12-year-old Staten Island student who sells drinks at basketball games and is now organising his own backpack giveaway for local children

At just 12 years old, Tamir Lewis is already learning what it means to be a community leader. The Staten Island student, who attends I.S. 72 and serves as a school ambassador, is organising his own back-to-school backpack giveaway for local children on September 2 at 1 p.m. at 100 Beach Street on Staten Island.According to The Staten Islander, the event will provide free backpacks and school supplies to students while supplies last. Fifteen students will also have the opportunity to receive special Sprayground backpacks through a free raffle. No purchase is necessary, with event materials stating that raffle quantities are limited to one ticket per student.From selling drinks to helping familiesTamir's community involvement extends beyond his school. At some local basketball games, the young entrepreneur operates a small station selling drinks and ices.The experience has allowed him to develop entrepreneurial skills while remaining connected to the neighborhood he calls home.His family describes him as smart, innovative, ambitious and caring, with a strong interest in leadership, entrepreneurship and community service.Rather than simply participating in community initiatives, Tamir is now taking the initiative to organise one himself.A family commitment to community serviceCommunity service is also an important value in Tamir's family. His mother, Katima Caldwell, has actively supported her son's growing commitment to helping others.Tamir and Caldwell have previously participated in a backpack giveaway organised through the 121 Precinct, helping distribute supplies and serve local families.His latest initiative builds on that experience, giving him the opportunity to take a more active leadership role in bringing resources to children ahead of the new school year.Local businesses rally behind Tamir's initiativeTamir's effort has also received support from businesses and community organisations across Staten Island.Sprayground and Parkhill Clothing donated backpacks for the giveaway, while Shawnae House, UAME Church, Oznico and others from the 122 Committee Board contributed donations and support.Bari's Pizza is also donating pizza pies for the September 2 event, adding another community touch to the back-to-school gathering.Together, the contributions have helped transform what began as one young student's idea into a broader community initiative.Free supplies and a chance to win a Sprayground backpackFamilies attending the event can receive free backpacks and school supplies while supplies remain available.In addition, 15 students will be selected through a free raffle to receive special Sprayground backpacks. The raffle does not require a purchase, and participation is limited according to the event's stated rules.For Tamir, the giveaway represents more than simply distributing school supplies. It reflects his desire to use his initiative and entrepreneurial spirit to make a difference for other children in his neighborhood.Catch the latest World News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.