Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) and the Putnam Community Action Partnership (CAP) have completed the organization’s 39th annual backpack drive. The event is intended to assist local students as families prepare for the start of the school year, a period that has become increasingly challenging due to rising costs.
Slater contributed more than 50 backpacks to this year’s collection, adding to the total of around 300 backpacks provided through community donations. The drive also distributed various school supplies and resources to families across the region.
Assemblyman Slater said, “As always, I’m incredibly grateful to Putnam CAP and everyone who helped make this year’s drive a success. New York is facing an affordability crisis, and it’s a shame our students are feeling the effects. Their success begins at school—ensuring they’re prepared is one of the most important ways we can set them up for a brighter future.”
Putnam Community Action Partnership Director Marisa O’Leary stated, “Education is the cornerstone of our community’s success, and every child deserves a strong start. When we equip low-income youth with the school supplies they need, we’re making a direct investment in their education and the overall future health and vitality of our community. Putnam CAP is grateful for Assemblyman Slater’s support in this effort.”
