Congressman Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx) hosted two back-to-school events on August 3 to distribute much-needed supplies to Queens students attending local community summer programs. First, he visited students from Goodwill’s Beacon Program at P.S. 149, where he was joined by NYS Senator Jose Peralta, NYS Assemblymember Michael DenDekker and NYC Council Member Daniel Dromm. He was then joined by Senator Peralta and NYS Assemblymember Margaret Markey at Sunnyside Community Services’ Youth and Family Services Program at Woodside Houses. In all, supplies were distributed to 375 elementary and middle school students.

“Nothing could be more important than putting our children in the best position to learn and succeed,” said Rep. Crowley. “Getting them off to the right start in school is critically important, but so is making sure they have the tools to do so. That’s why I’m proud to partner with our local elected officials, and our local summer programs to help adequately equip our youth with the supplies they need to make the most of their education.”

“It is indispensable that we ensure that our kids have the necessary school supplies as they get ready for the upcoming school year,” said Sen. Peralta (D-East Elmhurst). “Many hard-working families have difficulties making ends meet, and buying the supplies their children need for school puts another burden on their tight budgets. I want to thank Member of Congress Crowley, and all those involved, for organizing an event that will help students succeed in the academic year by providing them these tools.” 

“I am proud to join Congressman Crowley and Goodwill's Beacon Program today for this Back to School giveaway,” said Assemblyman DenDekker (D-East Elmhurst). “Every year, too many students start school without the proper supplies, putting them at a disadvantage to their peers. Events like this help us ensure that each and every child in New York City is fully prepared to begin school in the fall, and is ready to have a successful academic year. I would like to thank Congressman Crowley, the Goodwill, and P.S. 149 for hosting this event and for their dedication to our children.”

“The first day of school in the fall is the most exciting time of year for most youngsters, second only to the start of summer vacation,” said Assemblywoman Markey. “Carrying a new backpack stuffed with school supplies is a necessity for this all-important day. It is a great pleasure to join with Congressman Crowley and Senator Peralta to team up with Woodside Houses/Sunnyside Community Services to make sure that these boys and girls are fully equipped and ready to learn.”

“Every child should have the supplies they need to perform at their absolute best in school,” said NYC Council Education Committee Chairperson Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights, Elmhurst). “For many working families struggling to make ends meet, these tools are unaffordable. I applaud Congressman Crowley for providing Jackson Heights students with backpacks, notebooks and other items they need to excel in the classroom.”

Among the supplies distributed were notebooks, pens, colored pencils, sharpeners, folders and rulers.