Phil Mickelson Takes 1500 Students on a Target Shopping Spree

Rancho Santa Fe golfer Phil Mickelson and his wife, Amy helped brightened the weekend of 150 Carlsbad students from , and  schools.  

Their foundation, the Start Smart program took them and a total of 1,500 children from 44 elementary schools in six San Diego area school districts on a special Target shopping trip Saturday morning.

The students along with school principals and parent-escorts, boarded buses that transported them to the Mission Valley Target store. There, each child was given school supply kits and allowed to select one package of socks, one package of underwear, two pairs of shoes, a wide range of apparel and, what for many kids was a most exciting gift, a classy backpack.

Phil Mickelson was on hand, sharing in the excitement and taking photos. Newly outfitted from head to toe, the students enjoyed a great breakfast compliments of McDonald’s before heading home to try on all their new clothes.

Buena Vista students bounced off the bus mid-morning, eager to show off their back-to-school gear. First-grader Jennifer Garcia placed her huge Start Smart bag on the ground and donned her backpack, saying, “I love my clothes, but most of all my backpack!” Brian Johnson said his daughter, Amare, was particularly interested in picking out shirts, skirts and pants with bright colors.

Vicki McLees said her twins, Chance and Colin, loved choosing their shoes. She noted, “Having all these new clothes and school supplies is a huge financial help to our family. And the boys can’t wait to go to school and show everyone.”

That eagerness is one of the major benefits of the Start Smart program, believes Buena Vista Principal Tina Howard. She reports, “The morning went smoothly and we are so appreciative of the Mickelsons, Target and everyone involved. When kids get off to a good start, that feeling continues throughout the year.”

Superintendent John A. Roach, Ed.D., states, “In today’s challenging economy, the Mickelsons’ philanthropy is quiet, but very powerful. It’s amazing to consider that 1,500 kids throughout the county will begin the new school year with a brand-new wardrobe and a great outlook on school, and on life. The program’s name is certainly apt; these kids are ready and eager to start smart.”

The Mickelson Charitable Foundation’s Start Smart initiative is designed to enhance students’ self-esteem, get them excited about the new year and encourage them to focus on a good education. In addition to the Foundation’s support, the Start Smart program is made possible through the coordination of the San Diego County Office of Education.