Supporting the Next Generation to Build A More Affordable New York
Over the past few months, union carpenters and contractors have been hitting the ground across New York City, standing with our communities to help build a brighter, more affordable future for everyone. With rents rising seven times faster than wages, our communities need support to ensure that New York remains affordable. This challenge requires a holistic approach, and we’re committed to tackling it on multiple fronts. While we continue advocating for good jobs with fair pay and quality benefits that allow workers to afford to live in the city they build, we recognize that building an affordable city doesn’t just happen on job sites—it starts in the neighborhoods where we live and work.
That’s why we’ve been proud to take part in a series of back-to-school drives and community events, ensuring that the next generation of kids is set up for success. These efforts are a direct extension of our commitment to uplifting New York and making it affordable for all. By providing essential school supplies, we’re not only easing the financial burden on families but also investing in the future of our communities.
In the Bronx, we were on the front lines of four major back-to-school events, distributing over 760 book bags and school supply kits to families in need. These efforts underscore our belief that no child should start the school year at a disadvantage. By providing basic school necessities, we’re investing in the future of our communities and helping to level the playing field for young students.
In Queens, we hosted a back-to-school giveaway in Maspeth, distributing 100 book bags and school kits to ensure kids have the tools they need to confidently start the school year. Additionally, we organized an event in Astoria, where we handed out 250 more book bags and supplies, then headed to Forest Hills to donate 72 school supply kits to students in need. These efforts highlight the importance of coming together with community members to support families and demonstrate our commitment to the future of the next generation.
Brooklyn was also a major focus for us over the past few months. At Kaiser Park in Coney Island, we participated in a back-to-school event, providing 100 students with backpacks and supplies. We also took part in a Family Fun Day at Canarsie Park, celebrating with local families while distributing essential items to help kids start the school year strong. Additionally, at Corona Plaza, we handed out 300 backpacks to students preparing for the new school year.
Aside from helping set students up for success, these drives offered us an opportunity to collaborate with leading organizations and elected officials across the city to give back to our communities. Some of our partners included organizations like Queens Public Library, Forest Hills Stadium, MetroPlusHealth, NYU Langone, Brooklyn Library, ICNA Relief, and elected officials from the State Senate, Assembly, and City Council. These moments of collaboration help us better advocate for the communities in which we live and work. Tackling affordability and building New York’s best is a team effort, and these events provide a venue to discuss issues and opportunities, connect with the community, and hear directly from them about what they need to thrive.
These past few months have been a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. As union carpenters and contractors, we’re not only committed to building New York’s skyline—we’re dedicated to building thriving communities. Across all the boroughs, we’ve been there for the next generation, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed long-term. After all, building a more affordable New York starts on the ground, with our kids and their future.
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