St. Louis Rams wide receiver Donnie Avery's and his Catches for Kids Foundation kicked off their first ever "Back to School" program on August 8, 2011. Avery was on-site at Walmart to give away backpacks and take pictures with 250 St. Louis children and their families who were also treated to a school supply shopping spree courtesy of Catches for Kids. More than $15,000 was donated to the families who are now excited as ever to go back to school. Avery has also been asked to serve as the "Attendance Spokesperson" for St. Louis Public Schools middle and high schools. Founded in 2010, Catches for Kids Foundation's primary focus is to improve the lives of low-income, at-risk children by providing support and life changing experiences. By 2012, over 45,000 children and their families' lives will have been touched by Catches for Kids Foundation.