Assemblywoman Nikki Lucas‘ 12th Annual Back-to-School Giveaway, a staple of support for families in the 60th Assembly District, brought hundreds of families together in East New York this past weekend.
In addition to providing 1,000 students with necessary school materials, the event included programs to help kids feel confident and prepared to learn at the beginning of the school year.
1,000 Backpacks for Local Families
Families wait in line during the Back-to-School Giveaway.
Photo via NYCNewswire
More than 600 backpacks, including notebooks, pencils, and other supplies, were given out to youngsters who attended this year’s event. In order to reach more families in Brooklyn, an additional 400 bookbags were distributed to neighborhood-based groups.
At a time when daily expenses are increasing, parents expressed relief and gratitude for the offer, stating that it helps alleviate the financial strain of back-to-school shopping.
Leaders and Partners Show Support
Strong community support was given to the endeavor. Families were joined at the ceremony by Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez, and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries also provided support.
The significance of programs like this one, which improve relationships between local companies, families, and political officials, was emphasized by both leaders.
More Than Just Supplies
Student getting haircut at ENY Back-to-School Giveaway.
Photo via NYCNewswire
In addition to backpacks, the day included complimentary haircuts from neighborhood barbers and hairdressers, enabling children to return to class feeling their best and prepared. The extras emphasized the event’s goal of boosting self-esteem in addition to offering tangible assistance.
Parents also conveyed gratitude, pointing out that such occasions come at a critical time when the cost of groceries, rent, clothing, and other necessities continues to rise.
A Tradition of Commitment
Nikki Lucas hugs young studnet at ENY Back to School giveaway.
Photo via NYCNewswire
Assemblywoman Lucas sees the annual giveaway as a way to strengthen a community’s shared responsibility for its young, not only to raise money.
“This is my 12th year hosting this Back-to-School Giveaway, and every year it’s a reminder of how important it is to invest in our children and relieve some of the burden from parents,” Lucas said. “When students are prepared, they’re more excited to learn, and that sets the tone for a successful school year.”
The Back-to-School Giveaway has been a constant in East New York for over 10 years. It represents resiliency, optimism, and a community all coming together to help its youngest members.
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