First Corinthian Baptist Church collected and distributed more than 500 backpacks filled with school supplies for needy Harlem children and teens on Saturday.
The backpacks and supplies were donated by individuals and businesses in the community. The drive relieves many disadvantaged Harlem families of a financial burden; on average, back-to school supplies can cost $600-$950 per child, per year.
Donated supplies included combination locks, calculators, notebooks, binders, notebook paper and other items to help underprivileged youth succeed in school. The stuffed backpacks were handed out to children at FCBC’s fourth annual Harlem Children’s Fun at Morningside Park where more than 800 children, their families and individuals from the community participated in activities designed to promote the health and safety of children.