Philly Specials, Gov Shapiro Deliver Toys To Philly Students

PHILADELPHIA — Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata were joined by Gov. Josh Shapiro Tuesday as they delivered gifts to public school students as part of Operation Snowball.

The Philly Specials and the governor went to Eliza B. Kirkbride School Tuesday to celebrate Operation Snowball, which aims to ensure every Philadelphia public school student feels seen and celebrated this holiday season by delivering gifts to over 200,000 children.

Shapiro greeted students and school officials and met with The Philly Specials — a group of current and former Philadelphia Eagles offensive linemen who release holiday albums and raise money for local children's charities — as well as Speaker Joanna McClinton, Eagles Insider Dave Spadaro, School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington, Philadelphia Chief Education Officer Dr. Deb Carrera, and President/CEO for The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia Kathryn Roberson.

Following a series of remarks in the school gym, Mailata led students in a singalong, culminating in an Eagles chant.

Operation Snowball is powered by proceeds from The Philly Specials’ holiday records, including their latest album, "A Philly Special Christmas Party," released last month.

Through partnerships with toy companies, nonprofits, and corporations, the initiative has raised millions of dollars to provide holiday gifts to children in need.

Since its inception, the initiative has donated over $4.5 million to local charities, including the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.