Chicago Cubs’ leadoff man Dexter Fowler extended the team’s hot streak Wednesday by paying off the back-to-school-supply layaway accounts of 43 area families. Fowler, who says he remembers putting holiday presents on layaway growing up, said he was grateful to give back to Chicago’s young students.
“Any way that (athletes) can help, after being put on this pedestal … is definitely a blessing,” he said. “This is just a head start to get the kids excited about school.” Fowler’s appearance was organized by the Pay Away the Layaway charity.
After surprising a family of four by handing them their school supplies and clothing at a North Side Kmart, Fowler discussed the importance education has had in his life.
“My mom, she taught in the school system, so growing up school’s (been) very important to our family.”
Fowler, who was drafted out of high school but was recruited by Dartmouth and Harvard, said he is committed to going to college after his baseball career. Before doing so, however, he’ll have to face one of his hardest tests: a Cubs postseason run.