Dozens of families started the school year off on the right foot Thursday, Aug. 29, thanks to the annual school supply giveaway sponsored by SJC Brooklyn, YWCA Brooklyn and the national sorority Sigma Gamma Rho.
The event, held annually at the YWCA Brooklyn, provides children from families served by the YWCA with new backpacks filled with supplies donated by the respective partners.
“This is what community is: people of good hearts doing what they can to ensure that our young people flourish and that we all rise together,” said Rolanda Telesford, director of external affairs at YWCA Brooklyn. “I couldn’t be prouder of our residents or more appreciative of our partners for all they have done for the families and children we serve.”
The event kicked off with a thunderous performance by Justice League, the YWCA’s brand-new step team. During the event, raffles were called for special prizes, dinner was served and DJ T Star played tunes for an impromptu dance party and game of musical chairs in the community room at YWCA Brooklyn. Following the festivities, families queued up, chose backpacks and filled them up with the help St. Joseph’s and Sigma Gamma Rho volunteers.
“This successful event would not have come together without the grace and generosity of our partners,” SJC President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D. said. “By uniting to support students in the community, we are building a foundation for transformational success and living our mission.”