Get ready for school with free supplies

Staff

Get ready for school with free supplies
Starting today, community organizations are giving away free school supplies for Sunset Park kids.

Starting today, families in Sunset Park and surrounding neighborhoods have multiple chances to pick up free backpacks and school supplies, thanks to giveaways organized by local officials, churches, and community groups.

The first event kicks off today, Friday, August 15, when District 38 Council Member Alexa Avilés hosts a Back-to-School Giveaway from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at her district office. Backpacks will be provided with support from the Hispanic Federation and MetroPlusHealth. Families are asked to RSVP by calling 718-439-9012 or texting 646-531-7258.

On Saturday, August 16, two community events are scheduled: Spark Church will host a Backpack Block Party Giveaway at 5324 7th Ave. starting at 10 a.m., featuring live music, games, and activities for kids. Later that afternoon, Apex for Youth will host their annual Field Day at Sunset Park’s center lawn from 1 to 3 p.m. In partnership with Brooklyn Book Bodega, this free event offers games, crafts, prizes, and school supplies. Registration is strongly encouraged via this link.

On Tuesday, August 19, R.I.S.E. UP in Sunset Park will launch the first of two Back-to-School Fun Fairs, held at 341 39th Street, 6th Floor, Suite 604, from 2 to 4 p.m. In partnership with Mixteca, Brooklyn Community Services, Raising Health, IncludeNYC, the Office of Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), and the Office of Assembly Member Marcela Mitaynes, the event will offer free school supply kits, community resources, and activities. No registration is required, but space is limited to 50 people.

The giveaways continue on Saturday, August 23, with two opportunities. In Bay Ridge, Bay Ridge Cares, in partnership with Corcoran and the Office of Council Member Justin Brannan, will distribute 500 free backpacks filled with supplies at 8203 3rd Ave. starting at 10 a.m. The event is open to kids up to 5th grade—and they must be present with a parent or guardian. It’s limited to one backpack per child, first come, first served while supplies last. That afternoon, 5th Ave Pharmacy in Sunset Park will run its Back-to-School Giveaway at 4825 5th Ave. from 2 to 6 p.m.

The final event in the series takes place on Tuesday, August 26, when R.I.S.E. UP will hold their second Back-to-School Fun Fair from 2 to 4 p.m. Families can expect the same free supplies, resources, and activities.

With events spread across nearly two weeks, families have plenty of opportunities not only to gear up for the first day of school—but also to enjoy community celebrations before summer winds down.