Senator Klein Donates Summer Backpacks to Bronx Children

Klein secured $60,000 state grant to fund summer backpack giveaway for Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club and HELP Bronx homeless shelter
Local kids swing into summer with brand-new backpacks filled with books, jump ropes, sidewalk chalk and more

BRONX, NY - State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) and the Youth Service Opportunities Project (YSOP) donated summer backpacks to nearly 300 Bronx children from  the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club and the HELP Bronx Morris Avenue homeless shelter on Thursday.

“Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders and ensuring that all students – regardless of background – have the tools they need to succeed is critically important. By providing Bronx children with summer backpacks filled with educational, fun and engaging activities, we are not only expanding their horizons, but equipping them for the future. I’m proud to have secured $60,000 in state funding for the Youth Service Opportunities Project and I look forward to working together for many years to come,” said Senator Klein.

In 2014, Senator Klein provided YSOP, a nationally recognized non-profit, with a $60,000 state grant to bolster volunteer opportunities for young people across The Bronx and Westchester. The summer backpacks were prepared by the students at Prospect Hill Elementary School in Pelham, New York. All items were donated by the school, including fun summer toys and activities like children’s books, jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, cards and more.

“We are proud to partner with Senator Jeff Klein for this Kids Share Project.  Students from Prospect Hill Elementary School in Pelham were concerned about nearby children who might not have everything they need to enjoy their vacation.  By extending the simple but powerful act of sharing, hundreds of new students will be able to enjoy their summer through outdoor activities, fun games and at least one new book. We applaud Senator Klein for supporting this project and providing this vital funding to the Youth Service Opportunities Project,” said Ed Doty, Executive Director of Youth Service Opportunities Project.

“I want to thank Senator Klein for understanding the importance of lifting up our children. Unfortunately, all over the city, there are young people who don't receive the resources or attention they deserve. Today’s act of generosity and kindness for the children of the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club is an example all public officials should follow,” said Daniel Quintero, Executive Director of the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club.

The Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club has more than 10,000 members and works to improve the quality of life for children ages 6 - 18 who come from disadvantaged or underserved neighborhoods. HELP Bronx Morris Avenue is home to more than 200 families and provides transitional housing, health services, and early childhood education.