Front of the Class

On Saturday, Aug. 16, New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez will host a Back-to-School Backpack and Supply Distribution from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus located at 96 Second Avenue in Brentwood.  

This annual community effort, held in partnership with Liga de Justicia Abogados, began in 2015 and is open to school-aged students across the Fourth Senatorial District.  The distribution helps children have the tools they need for a successful start to the upcoming school year.  During last year’s event, more than 1,500 students received the supplies they needed to succeed. 

Pre-registration is required to attend.  Please call (800) 355-1234 to reserve your child’s spot.

In addition to backpacks and essential school supplies, students who attend will also be able to receive free barber services, hair clips, food, and take part in other fun activities, including face painting.

“September can be a challenging time for families with school-aged children,” said Sen. Martinez.  “This event helps more students from across our community be able to walk into the classroom prepared, confident and ready to learn.  I’m grateful to our partners for once again helping make this day possible and for finding a way to get school-age children excited about heading back to school.”

For families unable to attend the Brentwood event, additional backpacks and supplies will be available 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.