NYS Senator Kevin Parker who represents the 21st District in Brooklyn, on Saturday August 27 planned a fun-filled atmosphere to welcomed students throughout Central Brooklyn and other parts of New York City,  to the 16th Annual Back-to-School Harvest Fest in Paerdegat Park, where 1500 backpacks loaded with school supplies and PPE, were distributed to start the new school year.

The five-hour celebration began at noon.

According to Sen. Parker, Harvest Fest that has become a beloved tradition in the community, attracting thousands of attendees each year, and rooted in his commitment to education and community development, continues to ease the burden of parents who struggle to provide a good education for their children as the cost of school supplies skyrocket.

Youths enjoy a painting on canvas exercise at 16th Annual Back-to-School Harvest Fest hosted by Sen. Kevin Parker at Paerdegat Park, in the 21st Senate District, Brooklyn on Aug. 26, 2023. Photo by Tangerine Clarke

“Part of it is giving away school supplies, but the other part is that we want young people to have a positive experience as it relates to the beginning of school,” Sen. Parker said.

“We want it to be fun, so we try to provide a day of activities and food and games with a lens towards education,” he added.

The elected official was thrilled to continue this annual initiative that supports the academic success and overall well-being of Brooklyn’s youth.

The children, were joined by their parents during a Soca Zuma workout dance session conducted by instructor Kimberly Gustus of Impowherful Fitness, who said, it was a wonderful experience for the kids to be out in the community to fellowship with other kids, and to keep moving, “they did an amazing job,” who looks forward to partnering with Sen. Parker for future events.

Marcelle Lashley-Kabore, of Guyanese and Trinadian ancestry, showcases her products to promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship, at the 16th Annual Back-to-School Harvest Fest hosted by Sen.Kevin Parker at Paerdegat Park in the 21st Senate District, Brooklyn on Aug. 26 2023.Photo by Tangerine Clarke

Marcelle Lashley-Kabore, CEO and founder of Girls with Knowledge, who joined the Fest for the first time, said she partnered with the politician because he is a great supporter of the programming in his district, providing young people with resources of empowerment for them to start their own businesses.

“They learn entrepreneurship. But it is really centered around economic empowerment. We also give them insight for sustainable businesses rooted in financial literacy,” said Lashley-Kabore.

A Brooklyn Library staff engages a youngster with a paper toy train at the 16th Annual Back-to-School Harvest Fest hosted by Sen.Kevin Parker at Paerdegat Park, in the 21st Senate District, Brooklyn on Aug. 26, 2023. Photo by Tangerine Clarke

The Occasions Arts & Craft organization provided canvas and paints to inspire creativity, during the event that also provided giant board games, and Deejay music to keep the youngsters entertained.

Community Supermarket, Ideal Food Basket, joined the giveback for the first time, while Sesame Flyers International, that celebrates its 40th Anniversary, continued its support of the initiative.

Sen. Parker also thanked generous sponsorship of brands like EmblemHealth, Spectrum, Target, DSW, Brooklyn Kappa League, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Planet Fitness, and Delta Rho Omega Chapter, among others.