Two years after Philando Castile was fatally shot, he still helps students afford lunch
It has been two years since Philando Castile lost his life when he as was shot by a police officer. A charity created in his honor is helping students.
Before losing his life on July 6, 2016, Castile was known for paying for students' lunches, especially the ones who couldn't afford it. Pam Fergus launched the charity soon after his death.
As reported by Huffington Post, the Philando Feeds The Children Charity has settled the lunch debt for every school in the St. Paul School District - a total of 56 schools.
Castile worked as a cafeteria supervisor at the J.J Montessori Magnet School, and Fergus wanted to keep his memory alive by continuing his work.
The students recalled that Castile was always in good spirits, and would high five them when he passed them in the hallways or the cafeteria.
Fergus told reporters that she initially set a goal of $5,000 when she launched the charity foundation, but her wildest dreams have been surpassed, and she could donate a check of $35,000 to the St Paul district.
To date, the Philando Feeds The Children Charity received more than $196,600 from 4993 donors via the fundraising campaign on You Caring.
'Philando was "Mr. Phil" to the students at J.J. Hill. He supervised their food program and interacted with the kids every day. He knew their names and their diets. He loved his job!'
Pam Fergus, You Caring.
In July 2016, Castile was pulled over for a broken taillight. Officer Jeronimo Yanez shot Castile because he thought that Castile was reaching for a weapon.
Before he was shot, Castile told the officer that he was reaching for his wallet, since the officer wanted to see his license. His girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds recorded the confrontation.
Castile's four-year-old daughter was in the car and had to watch her father die. Daily Mail reported that shocking video footage showed the 4-year-old begging with Reynolds to keep calm, for fear that she might be killed as well.