Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson’s Office partnered with multiple organizations within the Bronx community to host their annual Back-to-School Health and Literacy Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 13, at P.S. 97, located at 1375 Mace Ave.
The event provided attendees with free haircuts, school supplies, games and other activities for the students, parents, educators and community leaders to enjoy. This fair helps to ensure that students are prepared for the upcoming school year.
The Health and Literacy Fair reflects Gibson’s mission of fostering community connections and providing relief for individuals and families during a period in which inflation and the cost of basic necessities are increasing. Families on hand received tangible support and access to essential resources.
“In the Bronx, we know that it takes a village to raise and inspire our children,” Gibson said. “Our Health and Literacy Fair is a celebration of that village, bringing together families, schools, community partners and local organizations to make sure our scholars start the school year ready to learn and thrive. I want to thank our partners and volunteers for helping us create a safe, fun and resource-filled day for our youth and families.”
Gibson’s office partnered with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Sharing Excess, the SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center and S.I.C. Film School to hold this event.
Gibson’s office provided 400 bookbags for attendees. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield provided 300 school supply kits. Sharing Excess made fresh produce available to those present. The S.I.C. Film School had a Mobile Media Room experience on hand for people at the fair. Additionally, there was an NYPD gaming truck and a rock wall for attendees to enjoy.
“Back-to-school season brings excitement—but also real financial pressure for many families. With average spending exceeding $890, some households are faced with difficult choices between school supplies and essential healthcare needs,” Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicaid President and CEO Dr. Mark Levy said. “Through our partnership with the Bronx Borough President’s Office, we’re helping to ease that burden—supporting both educational success and the overall well-being of the Bronx community.”
The Health and Literacy Fair has grown to become a cornerstone in the Bronx community. Each year, the event has helped to foster community connection and promote academic readiness, wellness and family engagement.
More back-to-school celebrations from Gibson’s office are right around the corner. The Bronx Community Celebration will be held in partnership with the New York Foundling on Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 12-4 p.m., at the Mott Haven Academy Charter School, located at 170 Brown Pl. There will be free school supplies, backpacks, resources, arts and crafts, music and more at this event. Additionally, the Back-to-School Bash is set to run on Thursday, Aug. 28, from 1-3 p.m. at the P.S. 65 school yard and outdoor gymnasium, located at 677 E. 141st St. This event will feature free backpacks, books, a jiujitsu class, a bouncy house and snow cones.
