Southeast Queens’ second annual Back-to-School Block Party and Backpack Giveaway brought together hundreds of community members on Sunday, Aug. 25.
The event, hosted by Council Member Nantasha Williams in partnership with Senator Leroy Comrie and Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman, took place in front of Williams’ office, located at 172-12 Linden Blvd. in Jamaica. A section of Linden Boulevard was closed down to host the festivities, which included a live DJ, games, dancing and an array of activities for families.
More than 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students to help equip them for the upcoming school year.
The event was sponsored by several local organizations and businesses, including the Showing Hearts Foundation, Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, TropicalFete, AMB, American Recycling Management, MetroPlus Health, Lyft, Mega Contracting, Royal Waste Services, Met Council, Hope Kids NY, American Debate League, Liberty Ashes, Artimus, Amazon, DC9 Union, Spectrum, PUDS, LECET and I Will Graduate.
Council Member Williams said the block party brought residents together for a day filled with joy.
“This block party and backpack giveaway is about more than just providing school supplies; it’s about bringing our community together and showing our young people that we care about their success,” she said in a statement. “We are here to support our students as they prepare for the new school year and to remind them that they are valued members of our community.”
Senator Comrie and Assemblymember Hyndman also voiced their support, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the local community.
“Supporting our community’s children as they prepare for the new school year is one of the most important things we can do,” said Senator Comrie in a statement. “Distributing 1,000 bookbags to local children not only helps ensure they have the tools they need to succeed, but also shows them that their community is here to support them every step of the way. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Southeast Queens.”
Assemblymember Hyndman added that the community is “committed to supporting our children’s education by providing the resources they need to succeed. This event was not only just about school supplies, but also coming together to uplift and empower our youth,” she said.
