A Strong Start for Queens Students

NYN Digital Desk:
A new school year begins with more confidence when children have the supplies they need, and hundreds of young students in Queens received that support through BHALO’s Back-to-School Giveaway, a community initiative serving local children and families.
The nonprofit organization reported that more than 600 children received supplies during the event, with over 50 different school-supply items distributed. Hundreds of families took part, turning the giveaway into a broad community effort centered on education, student readiness, and practical assistance before the start of the school year.
The event drew several prominent New York City officials and community leaders. Those in attendance included New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Council Member Linda Lee, NYC Assistant Commissioner for Community Affairs Freda Kizman, and Jamaica Muslim Center Secretary Demwar Islam. Their participation brought public attention to an initiative focused directly on the needs of children and families in the Queens community.
The program was presided over by BHALO Founder Shariar Rahman, who joined volunteers, partners, supporters, and community members in carrying out the distribution. Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, CEO of Save the People USA (STPUSA), also attended with members of the STPUSA team, joining the wider community effort to support students.
Beyond the number of supplies distributed, the event reflected the role nonprofit organizations and volunteers play in helping families prepare for the academic year. Back-to-school expenses often involve numerous everyday items, and community distributions provide families with direct assistance while placing education at the center of local service.
BHALO thanked the volunteers, partners, supporters, public officials, and residents who contributed to the program. The organization said the goal was to help children enter school with “confidence, dignity, and the supplies they need to succeed.”
For hundreds of Queens families, the giveaway turned community cooperation into something practical: backpacks and school supplies placed directly into the hands of students preparing for another year of learning.