Community block party helps kids get ready for school year

ALBANY, N.Y. ( NEWS10 ) — A local nonprofit hosted a community block party in Albany on Thursday. The Mental Health Empowerment Project gave local kids a chance to have some fun outside before the school year starts.

They handed out 500 backpacks, books and free food outside their center on Second Street. Some barbers were on hand and gave out back-to-school haircuts. There were also musical performances, face painting and more.

“I just wanted to show the people in this community that there’s more than just negativity going around here,” Mental Health Empowerment Project Coordinator Shawn Pondillo said. “You know, we can put together something positive.”

Organizers hope to turn it into an annual event and are looking to host it in Albany’s Washington Park.

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