Despite, students have not been given the go ahead to return to the classroom due to the on going COVID-19 pandemic, they nevertheless, equipped themselves with the necessary tools for learning, thanks to Senator Kevin Park who distributed 2,000 backpacks at his 13th Annual HarvestFest Back-To-School Giveaway, to start the new school year.
The Thursday, Aug. 28 event was held at Senator Parker’s Brooklyn District Office, and the Vanderveer Park United Methodist Church. The distribution continued the following day at the Flatbush YMCA and Madison Square Boys & Girls Club.
The COVID-19 restrictions prevented the annual day of family fun and entertainment, held at Paerdegat Park in Flatbush, and caused the giveaway to be split into a two-day event at smaller locations in the 21st District to properly observe social distancing rules.
“We’re dealing with a global pandemic and a high level of uncertainty in our everyday lives,” stated Senator Parker, adding, “People have lost their jobs. Some are facing food insecurity, and for some, school is starting very shortly.”
“As I help my constituents through all of these issues, we must continue to ensure that our students are taken care of as well. While I do not support the rushed reopening of our public schools, I still remain steadfast in my duty to make sure that our students are as prepared as they can be no matter what form their education takes this school year,” he said.
“As always, I am appreciative of the support from our event sponsors. Every year they take the time to make sure our kids have what they need to be successful on their journeys to their careers, and their partnership with my office to this end is invaluable,” said Parker.
The politician thanked partners, Spectrum, Student First NY, Emblem, Target, Altice, Consolidated Edison of New York, AT&T, 5 Below, Cricket Wireless, Cartridge Evolution, the New York City Department of Sanitation, and New Hope Church for their commitment to education.
