Excited for the new school year, families at HFH residences came together for back-to-school celebrations filled with backpacks, games, sweet treats, and more. While the festivities set the tone for a fresh start, the rising cost of school supplies continues to burden families everywhere. This year, we are especially grateful to our generous donors and volunteers, whose support ensured HFH kids had what they needed to head back to school with confidence.
At Clinton, families picked up bookbags and supplies to get ready for the new year. One father made a point to stop during the festivities to say, “Thank you so much for giving these supplies to my son.” A third grader-to-be shared her own excitement: “I love school. I have my friends. I like math.”
Saratoga families gathered at the outdoor space for a day of celebration. Kids ran around the basketball court, hula-hooped, and played sports while enjoying face and body painting. A snow cone truck let them mix and match their own flavors, and balloons and brand-new backpacks proved to be the highlight of the day.
At Allie’s Place, families filled the Afterschool & Recreation space for a back-to-school celebration. The Afterschool, Administration, and Family Services teams hosted tables with information on programs while giving out backpacks, books, supplies, and Metrocards. Sargeant Damico and the NYPD Community Affairs team stopped by with toys and games, while the Culinary team provided snacks of cupcakes, churros, and fruit medleys.
Williamsbridge Recreation hosted its annual celebration with plenty of activities to kick off the year. Families enjoyed a magician, face painting, and cotton candy while kids picked up backpacks and supplies. The Rec team decorated the space for the occasion, and families snapped Polaroid photos to mark the milestone.
These celebrations wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our partners and donors. A special thank you goes to the Brooke Jackman Foundation, Old Navy, the Hollis Lions Club, the Rosedale Lions Club, and JFK Millennium Partners for helping ensure that every kid at HFH walked into the school year prepared and confident.
