Students promising to steer clear of gangs are awarded FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Nassau Lawmakers commend community program that dispensed supplies to hundreds of students

It was a wonderful lesson for the first day of school-- Hempstead School District students were asked to sign a pledge to stay away from gangs and earn passing grades. In exchange for the pledge, the students got free school supplies. Nassau County Legislators Kevan Abrahams (D-Hempstead) and Deputy Presiding Officer Roger Corbin (D-Westbury) both give the concept an “A+” and have commended the community organization called H.E.V.N. Coalition (Helping End Violence Now) for coming up with the idea.

“I would like to thank the H.E.V.N. coalition for its generosity and creativity in improving the lives of youngsters,” said Legislator Abrahams. “This sends a positive message of support to our young people.”

Several weeks ago following the opening of school, the H.E.V.N. coalition sponsored a Back to School Rally and dispensed several thousands of dollars worth of donated school supplies to more than 400 students and parents. The supplies were donated by local businesses, including Staples and Norfolk Bank, and community organizations in order to assist students in the Hempstead School District, which is currently operating on a contingency budget.

“It’s important that children can start the school year without distractions and be given the opportunity to get an education,” said Bishop J. Raymond Mackey, Sr., the executive director of H.E.V.N.

“Programs like this give young students positive reinforcement,” said Legislator Corbin. “I commend all the community and businesses leaders who were generous with their time and money.”