State Senator Steve Rhoads recently hosted his 3rd Annual School Supply Drive, collecting essential school supplies for children and families in need throughout the community. This year’s drive was held in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Levittown, which helped organize and secure donations for the effort. The drive was spearheaded by Elisha Mirza, an intern in Senator Rhoads’ office, who helped coordinate the effort and secure donations from community partners. 

The Garden of Dreams Foundation also generously contributed pencil cases, backpacks, and additional school supplies. Garden of Dreams supports young people’s education and development throughout the metropolitan area and beyond.

Collection boxes were also placed at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library, Staples in Hicksville, and Michaels in Hicksville, giving residents and local businesses additional opportunities to contribute.

Thanks to the generosity of community members and partner organizations, the drive collected notebooks, pencils, erasers, highlighters, scissors, and many other essential supplies. The donations will be distributed to youth through Iglesia Cristiana Manantial Abierto (ICMA) Church in Hicksville. 

“Back-to-school season should be an exciting time for children, not a financial burden for families,” said Senator Steve Rhoads. “I’m proud that our 3rd Annual School Supply Drive brought together the Kiwanis Club of Levittown, Garden of Dreams Foundation, local businesses, the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library, and generous members of our community to make a difference. By working together, we can ensure that children in need have the supplies they need to start the school year with confidence and the opportunity to succeed. I am grateful to everyone who donated and helped make this year’s drive a success.” 

“We thank Senator Steve Rhoads for believing in our community. Every backpack is a reminder that we are not just giving school supplies to children; we are creating a bridge from hope and service to local families through ICMA Church. Because of the Senator’s support, our church can demonstrate the love of Christ in a practical way,” said Jamie Aguilar, Pastor at Iglesia Cristiana Manantial Abierto (ICMA) Church.

Senator Rhoads expressed his appreciation to the Kiwanis Club of Levittown, Garden of Dreams Foundation, Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library, Staples, Michaels, Elisha Mirza, and everyone who donatedto this year’s school supply drive for their generous support and commitment to helping local children and families.