Inaugural grab-and-go Backpack Bash

Islip Town councilman Jim O’Connor, NYS assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo, The Anchor Church, along with local law enforcement agencies, fire rescue, public library and chamber of commerce, co-hosted the inaugural Backpack Bash event in East Islip.

“It takes a village to help raise a child, and here in East Islip the call was answered by some of the bravest, boldest, and big-hearted community partners,” said O’Connor. “It’s a privilege to collaborate with frontline community providers such as The Anchor Church, East Islip Fire Department, Suffolk Police Department [3rd Precinct], Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, East Islip Chamber of Commerce, and the East Islip Public Library. It is because of their generosity and efforts that nobody was turned away and that we are able to help local families prepare for the upcoming school year. I wish all students a rewarding, memorable, and healthy new school year.”

The inaugural event provided free stuffed backpacks to all attendees, along with grab-and-go donated school supply stations, which were set up to provide additional supplies for students and their families.

“To say our inaugural Backpack Bash was a special morning would be an understatement,” added Gandolfo. “Through the power of collaboration and community involvement, we had the opportunity to touch the lives of families in a positive way as they begin getting ready for the upcoming school year. We are already planning for next year!”