New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud’s (SD19) full-fledged in-person Annual Fun Day and Back-to-School Giveaway event on Aug. 25 attracted hundreds of residents from the 19th Senatorial District, and surrounding areas to Canarsie Park on Seaview Avenue in Brooklyn.
The lawmaker, who said she would no longer be representing many of the constituents who attended the festivities due to redistricting, welcomed the community to the annual family gathering that saw a successful partnership with city and state agencies, healthcare providers, youth organizations, entertainment groups, story time book reading, and law enforcement.
The give-back was a total success gaging from the many families who stood on long lines stretched for miles in the park, to receive reusable bags, packed with informational material, and free gifts. More than 200 backpacks were also distributed to students eager to return to in-person learning.
The infectious deejay music, carnival style presentation by Tropical Fete Stilt Dancers, Ding-A-Ling the Magical Clown, Fun Bash board games, and massive giveaways kept attendees entertained during the noon to 4 p.m. happy day, that also shared fresh watermelons, snacks and beverages.
Karen Wharton, a supporter of Sen. Persaud, said despite the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions last year, the lawmaker managed to host a scaled-down version of the fun day, one of the many services and children’s activities including, summer reading activities, she provides. She has also presented forums to educate the community about human trafficking.
“If you walk around most days, especially on the weekends, you would see her out in the community, leading outreach programs like food distribution. She also provides supportive services for youth and seniors,” said Wharton.
The politician also engaged the community during Caribbean American Heritage Month and for the first time, honored those lost in the 911 attacks. The memorial was held in partnership with other elected officials in 2021.
Sen. Persaud thanked her staunchest partners, Family Assessment Program, NYPD 67th Precinct, FDNY Mobile CPR Unit, NYC Sanitation, NYC Health+Hospitals, Healthy Families Brookdale, CABS Homecare, BMS Family and/ Wellness Center, OBH One Brooklyn Health, ASPCA, New York Life, Colony South Brooklyn Houses Inc., and Emblem Health.
Other partners are, Free Summer Meals NYC, Brooklyn Public Library Broadway Stages, Millennium Development, City of New York Parks & Recreation, NYPD Recuit.com, Lions Club, DEP, Shoppers World, Reach out and Read, and others.
Additionally, award-winning author Kamla Millwood, of Peach the Duck series, who served as emcee, engaged young students in an exciting story-telling session under a tree in the park.
The politician whose legislative priorities for the district include safer communities, affordable housing, funding for schools and libraries, continues to sponsor legislation to tackle gun violence, aid small businesses, support education, and develop a vigorous social service agenda.
The staff of Four Seasons Solutions, stated on their website, “Thank you to Senator Roxanne Persaud for inviting us to participate in the SD19 Family Fun Day and Back to School Event. Our team had a blast!”
Sen. Persaud, a fierce advocate for the community, gives unwavering support and gives back, as evident by her devotion to community involvement and her interest in assisting others.
The politician who is described as having a universal reach in her district that encompasses neighborhoods of Brownsville, Canarsie, East New York, Howard Beach, New Lots, Spring Creek, and Starrett City has traveled overseas on numerous occasions as a volunteer on medical and social outreach programs.
She has received many awards for her service from religious, civic, and community organizations, among others. Senator Persaud could be reached at her District Office, 1222 East 96th St., Brooklyn, NY 11236. phone: (718) 649-7653.
