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.