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Empire City Casino Donates 300 Bags To Yonkers' 'Backpack To School' Drive

YONKERS, N.Y. -- The City of Yonkers hosts its fourth annual "Backpack to School" drive to collect school supplies for elementary students in need, and received a much-needed boost with a donation of 300 backpacks from Empire City Casino.

"Backpack to School," is a Yonkers initiative which helps students receive the necessary school supplies.

"Backpack to School," is a Yonkers initiative which helps students receive the necessary school supplies.

Photo Credit: Contributed

Getting new clothes, shoe and school supplies is a necessity for students, but for many, it can be a financial burden.

According to statistics provided by the National Retail Federation, the average parent spends hundreds of dollars on back-to-school items, including $101.18 on school supplies, $355.76 on clothing and shoes and $212.35 on electronics.

The backpacks weren't the only boost New York State schools and teachers receive from Empire City. The Yonkers casino and raceway generates nearly $300 million annually for state education. In the past 8 years operating as a casino, the property has generated over $2.3 billion that has gone directly to fund education in New York.

“Families with children returning to school have a heavy financial burden at this time of year, and it’s important that the community lend a helping hand,” said Empire City’s president, Tim Rooney.

“We’re proud of the funds we generate each year to support teachers and students across the state and encourage all who are able to do what they can to support the Backpack to School Drive.”

For more information on the “Backpack to School” program and drop off locations, click here.

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