ASSEMBLYMAN SLATER, PUTNAM CAP CONCLUDE ANNUAL BACKPACK DRIVE

Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) and the Putnam Community Action Partnership (CAP) have successfully concluded their annual Backpack Drive, helping more than 450 local students and families prepare for the upcoming school year. 

Throughout the drive, community members donated new, sturdy backpacks for students from elementary through high school, as well as $25 gift cards to Staples, Target and Walmart. Donations were collected at locations across Putnam and Westchester counties, including Putnam CAP and town facilities in Carmel, Kent, Southeast, Putnam Valley, Patterson, Yorktown and Somers.

“Once again, our community stepped up tremendously to make sure local students have what they need to begin the school year ready to learn,” said Slater. “Back-to-school shopping can place a real financial strain on families, especially as the cost of everyday necessities continues to rise. Every backpack and gift card donated helps ease that burden and allows a student to walk into the classroom feeling confident and prepared. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed and to Putnam CAP for their continued partnership.”

Putnam Community Action Partnership Director Marisa O’Leary said, “The back-to-school season can place an immense financial strain on families already struggling to stretch their budgets. Thanks to Assemblyman Matt Slater and his team, and the generosity of our community, this drive ensures that local children start the school year prepared, confident and ready to learn. These donations directly remove barriers to education for Putnam County youth.”

“Seeing our neighbors come together year after year to support local families is what makes this effort so special,” Slater added. “Thank you to everyone who donated, hosted a collection site or helped spread the word. Because of your generosity, students across our community will be able to start the school year with the supplies they need to succeed.”