East New York back-to-school giveaway ensures children are ready to return to class

Three hundred backpacks with school supplies were distributed to help parents and students cross off one thing on their shopping list.

News 12 Staff

Sep 2, 2023, 10:29 PM

Updated 371 days ago

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A back-to-school giveaway was held in East New York Saturday to ensure that the community's kids are ready for the new academic school year.
Three hundred backpacks with school supplies were distributed to help parents and students cross off one thing on their shopping list. It was all thanks to tattoo artist Young Phoenix and a group of partners who came together for their first back-to-school giveaway.
"There's a lot of kids in need, a lot of families in need that need a little assistance especially when it comes to back-to-school," Phoenix said.
"Our kids are getting into tougher grades, so they need items that are a little bit more expensive," said Monet Brown, who with her friend Jacqueline Cruz, were two of the many parents who picked up backpacks and school supplies for their seventh and ninth graders.
The event was not just about distributing back-to-school items, though. Children also got free footwear, haircuts, braids, and could also get their nails done.
The stylists also donated their time to ensure the children had fresh looks.
This was the first year Phoenix and his partners held a back-to-school backpack giveaway. They are looking to make this an annual event.