The Ossining Collective—a collaborative initiative of the Ossining Youth Bureau, Kindle Community Inc., and Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church—will host its Second Annual Back-to-School Festival on Saturday, August 15, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Nelson Park.
Although this marks the Collective’s second annual festival, it builds upon Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church’s longstanding commitment to helping local children begin each school year prepared for success. Today, that vision has grown into a community-wide partnership that brings together local government, nonprofit organizations, businesses, faith communities, and volunteers with one shared mission:
Ensuring every child begins the school year with confidence, dignity, and the resources they need to succeed.
Last year’s festival welcomed more than 1,000 community members, providing hundreds of children with new sneakers, backpacks filled with school supplies, free meals, family activities, live entertainment, and access to valuable community resources.
This year’s festival will expand with the addition of a 3-on-3 Community Basketball Tournament, joining the returning youth soccer tournament, live music, food vendors, community organizations, health and wellness resources, family activities, and giveaways—all offered free to the community.
“Every child deserves to walk into the classroom on the first day of school with confidence, dignity, and the belief that their community is behind them,” said Rev. Shaun Ellison Jones, Senior Pastor of Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church. “That’s what the Ossining Collective represents. We’re not simply giving away sneakers and backpacks—we’re telling our young people that they matter, they are loved, and this community is invested in their future.”
“Real change happens when organizations choose collaboration over competition,” said Dr. Julissa McFarlane, Founder and CEO of Kindle Community Inc. “The Ossining Collective demonstrates what’s possible when nonprofits, faith communities, local government, businesses, and volunteers unite around one common purpose—creating opportunities for our children and strengthening our entire community.”
“Preparing students for success begins long before they enter the classroom,” said Chima Monday, Director of the Ossining Youth Bureau. “This festival reflects our shared commitment to ensuring every child has the support, encouragement, and resources they need to thrive. We’re proud to stand alongside our partners in investing in Ossining’s young people.”
In addition to receiving free sneakers, backpacks, and school supplies (while supplies last), families will have opportunities to connect with nonprofit organizations, educational partners, healthcare providers, and community agencies offering programs and services that support children throughout the year.
EVENT INFORMATION
- What: The Ossining Collective’s Second Annual Back-to-School Festival
- When: Saturday, August 15 | 12:00–4:00 p.m.
- Where: Nelson Park, Ossining, NY
- Admission: Free and open to the public
Families are encouraged to register in advance for the sneaker giveaway. Sneakers and school supplies will be distributed while supplies last.
