Community Programs & Resources

10+ Photos From the Ninth Annual 'Back-2-School' Block Party in Harlem That Beam With Joy

Hosted annually in Manhattanville, the back-to-school drive equips local youth with the tools needed to thrive in the classroom.

By
Brandee Sanders
September 11, 2024
Hundreds of backpacks filled with supplies were distributed to local youth at the back-to-school block party in Harlem. Photo credit: Susan Farley

Before the official return of school bells, the spirit of excitement and hope for the new academic year rang throughout Old Broadway in Harlem at the Ninth Annual Back-2-School Supply Drive on August 28. To usher in the school season, the 26th Precinct’s Community Affairs division and Manhattan Community Board 9, with support from Columbia Community Service, Columbia University Facilities and Operations’ Construction Business Initiatives unit, Columbia’s Office of Public Safety, and other local organizations, teamed up to host a festive block party for local youth.

Designed to empower Uptown youngsters to put their best foot forward when stepping back into the classroom this year, the event featured a backpack distribution with supplies, a hair braiding station led by the Harlem-based Lagazzele Hair Studio, face painting by Indiglo Entertainment, music, games, and resources for families. Hundreds of local residents came together to celebrate the magic of the back-to-school season.

Check out this collection of photos from the joyous afternoon.

Local youth enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon of games, music, face painting, and other festivities during the annual back-to-school event in West Harlem. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Face painting fun, courtesy of Indiglo Entertainment, was on the lineup of festivities at the back-to-school block party. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Youngsters were adorned with braided hairstyles courtesy of the Harlem-based salon, Lagazzele Hair Studio. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Youth play in a bouncy house during the annual back-to-school event in West Harlem. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Upbeat music spun by a local DJ kept the celebratory vibes going at the back-to-school block party. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Youngsters participated in games led by the 26th Precinct’s Community Affairs division. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Local families learned about Columbia's community-focused programs at the annual back-to-school event in West Harlem. Photo credit: Susan Farley
A backpack distribution line wraps around Old Broadway. Hundreds of Uptown families are supported annually through the event in West Harlem. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Local youth received backpacks packed with school supplies at the back-to-school block party. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Youngsters filled their new backpacks with school supplies at the back-to-school block party. Photo credit: Susan Farley
Attendees take a photo with West Harlem Development Corporation Executive Director Zead Ramadan, NYPD Community Affairs Officer Anna Cardenas, and another member of the NYPD Community Affairs team. Photo credit: Susan Farley
A youngster poses with her new backpack at the annual back-to-school event in West Harlem. Photo credit: Susan Farley

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