ALBANY, N.Y. — Mohawk Ambulance Service and the City School District of Albany partnered with local community agencies to offer the Summer Celebration & Safety Day on July 20. The event provided guests with free food and snacks, games and giveaways, and safety information from participating organizations on staying safe this summer season.
Representatives from partnering agencies included Albany Community Action Partnership, Albany Community Development Agency, Albany County District Attorney’s Office, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Albany Fire Department, Albany Police Department, Albany Public Library, All Smiles New York , Alliance for Positive Health, CDPHP, Capital District Pop Warner, Capital District Tobacco-Free Coalition, Capital Roots, CDTA, CityLax Albany, Donate Life New York State, Fidelis Care, First Student (Albany), Liberty Partnership, New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, New York State Police, New York State United Teachers, NYS Homes and Community Renewal, Planned Parenthood – Albany Health Center, St. Peter’s Dental Center, State University of New York System, The Damien Center, The Wizard’s Wardrobe, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, Whitney Young Health, Women, Infants, and Children (Albany).
Highlights of the event included a demonstration from an Albany County Sheriff’s K9 deputy, fire engine and ambulance tours, and Operation SAFE Child ID’s from the Albany Police Department. The cards include a photo, fingerprints and other vital information that can be helpful in the event a child goes missing. Alongside the educational activities, children and families enjoyed a complimentary barbecue and giveaways. Entertainment was provided by local band “Legacy.â€
“We are so pleased to have almost three dozen partners as part of this event. This is only possible because so many people care about our community,†said Cecily Wilson-Turner, assistant superintendent for elementary instruction for the City School District of Albany. “We have so many important programs and services available to us in Albany and this is a great opportunity for the district and its partners to give back to our students and families.â€
“We want to remind children to be aware of their surroundings and potential dangers that go along with their favorite summer activities. This event conveys those messages in a fun and interactive manner,†said James P. McPartlon, III, president, Mohawk Ambulance Service. “I’d like to sincerely thank all of our partners for their participation and support.â€