By Forum Staff
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and the 106th Precinct partnered to host a back-to-school bookbag and school supply giveaway last Wednesday, distributing nearly 275 book bags full of supplies outside of her district office on 101st Avenue. Representatives from EmblemHealth also participated in the event, donating 100 bags while helping to answer questions about health insurance from parents interested in getting themselves or their children covered.
“Every year, far too many children here in District 32 head into the classroom without the tools they need to succeed,” said Ariola. “This has wide-ranging effects, impacting not just their classroom performance but their self-esteem as well. This summer my office worked hard to change that, and make sure that every kid in this district has the confidence and the equipment they need to thrive. These young people are our future, and we owe it to them to make sure they grow into the leaders our neighborhoods can be proud of. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped make this event a success.”
“EmblemHealth is here to service the community with health insurance needs,” added Gloria Vizcarrondo, an EmblemHealth sales manager who staffed the company’s table at the giveaway. “We offer health insurance for children and adults ages 64 and under—and we want to help support back-to-school events to help the community and provide a service for anyone with questions about Medicaid or health insurance.”

