'Back To School' Party Gives 1,200 Kids Free Backpacks In Queens

JAMAICA, QUEENS -- A Jamaica rental company is planning a massive soirée to help local students ring in the new academic year, and they'll be handing out backpacks stuffed with school supplies as party favors.

Zara Realty, one of Queens' largest landlords, on Wednesday announced plans to give some 1,200 local students new backpacks full of school gear at a "Back To School" party this Friday.

“We want to make it a little bit easier for families in Jamaica and the surrounding area to get a head start on school supplies,” said Zara Realty Vice President Anthony Subraj.

The blowout will take place in the Hillside Place Luxury Apartments at 87-50 167th St. from 2 to 6 p.m.

In addition to the supplies, students will also be treated to an afternoon of free food, face painting, music, and other children's activities, Subraj said.

The event aims to get children excited about school while easing some of the cost burden it can put on parents, said Zara Realty Chief Finance Officer Amir Sobhraj.

“Seeing their kids return to school is a source of pride for parents but it also means additional expenses," Sobhraj said.

"We hope these supplies can play a small role in relieving some of the financial burden on Queens families."

Patch also wants to help one lucky family cut down on back-to-school costs.

Click this link to sign up for the New York City Patch email newsletter by Aug. 27, and you will be entered for a chance to win a brand-new backpack stuffed with school supplies.

We'll pick the lucky winner before Sept. 5, the first day of school for New York City public school students.

Lead photo by Noah Manskar/Patch