Growing up in Philly played a vital role in Meek Mill's life. It's something he takes great pride in and is never too shy to remind us where he came from. In honor of the great city that birthed him, Meek decided to move forward on a promise he made to renovate their basketball courts and The Philadelphia Inquirer was there to capture it all.
With Puma's help, he chose to give Strawberry Mansion Legacy Courts a grand makeover. Being the location that sits across the street from his old home was all the reason he needed. He shared with TMZ:
"North Philly will always be home. When kids go to East Fairmount Park, they deserve to ball in the best conditions possible, so I'm glad they'll have that opportunity now."
The city's Parks & Recreation department and Strawberry Mansion Community Development Corporation were happy to help in the 6-week long journey. Puma got Philly-based artist, Glossblack, to link the team with the Mural Arts Program. A block party unveiled colorful new additions to the courts as a refreshing paint job courtesy of the Mural Arts' Restorative Justice Program. Adam Crawford led a team of young men on probation as they used the opportunity to do something creative and good for their community.
Meek arrived with his sons, mother, Kathy Williams, and more right behind him. Kathy reminisced about a little Meek playing on those same courts. While, aunt, Annamarie Easley, expressed pride in her nephew.
“I am so proud of him. He’s had his own problems, but he’s now trying to help everybody.”
Photo: Philadelphia Inquirer/ Heather Khalifa