On Saturday, Aug. 27, the city of Buffalo distributed - with assistance from National Grid - 2,000 backpacks, each filled with about $150 in new school supplies to school-age children from across the city. 

“We want all children to have a great school experience,” said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, who thanked National Grid and other sponsors of the fourth-annual event, which provides kids in underserved parts of the city the opportunity to start the new school year on the right foot.  

“This has become an annual tradition for our company,” said National Grid Regional Director Ken Kujawa, who added his deep appreciation for working with Mayor Brown, The Teacher’s Desk and Buffalo Police Athletic League for coordinating the effort. 

National Grid's Ken Kujawa addresses media with Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, at left,
and Buffalo Police Athletic League Executive Director Nekia Kemp, at right.  

“These children represent the future workforce, and it’s important that they have the tools to complete their school work,” Kujawa said. “We’re proud to once again be sponsoring this event.” 

National Grid and the city also distributed similar backpacks on Aug. 18 to school kids who completed the mayor’s summer reading program.

Events like the backpack giveaway align with National Grid’s Project C initiative, which is designed to go beyond the safe, affordable energy that we provide our customers. In collaboration with the people of New York, the company inspires positive change, create positive neighborhood impact, strengthen communities and make a difference for years to come.

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