A Fresh Page

More than 1,200 students from across the Fourth Senatorial District will start the school year prepared with new backpacks and supplies thanks to a Back-to-School Backpack and Supply Distribution event hosted on Saturday by New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Liga de Justicia Abogados.

The annual event, held at the Knights of Columbus in Brentwood, was created to help families ease the financial burden of back-to-school preparations and to make sure every child has the resources needed for academic success.

In addition to receiving backpacks filled with essential supplies, students had the opportunity to enjoy free barber services, hair clips, food, and family-friendly activities, including face painting.

“September can be a challenging time for families with school-aged children,” Sen. Martinez said.  “This event helps more students from across our community walk into the classroom prepared, confident and ready to learn.  I am grateful to our partners for once again making this day possible and for creating a positive and exciting way for children to get ready for the new school year.”

Families who were unable to attend will have another opportunity to receive backpacks and supplies during Sen. Martinez’s End of Summer Community BBQ on Saturday, Aug. 30, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hermann Griem Park in Wheatley Heights.