BROOKLYN, N.Y. — A wave of holiday cheer swept through Brooklyn as hundreds of families came together for a heartwarming toy giveaway, a significant part of National Grid’s annual Season of Giving campaign. The air buzzed with the infectious excitement of children, their faces alight with joy as they clutched brand-new presents. Neighbors shared in the collective happiness, creating a vibrant tapestry of community spirit.
Debra Benders, a resident who has called Cooper Park home for six decades, eloquently captured the essence of the event. “It’s about giving, this is the season to give,” she remarked. “I know a lot of people don’t have, but again National Grid gave generously so we can go out and give these toys for these babies and some of the older kids as well.” Her words resonated with the sentiment of generosity that permeated the gathering.
Beyond Toys: Empowering the Community with Technology
The celebration, however, extended far beyond the distribution of toys. The atmosphere shifted, transforming into a hub of opportunity as National Grid unveiled a state-of-the-art computer lab, a brand-new addition to the community center. This innovative space is equipped with over two dozen computers, a dedicated podcasting area, and professional DJ equipment, signaling a significant commitment to the community’s future.
The primary objective of this new facility is to bridge the digital divide and significantly expand access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for residents of Greenpoint and the surrounding areas.
“There’s desktops, there’s laptops, there’s tablets,” explained Aubrey Kelman, National Grid’s Community Investment Manager. “This is a big community investment that is going to focus on a lot of STEM education and programming for the young people in this community.” Kelman emphasized the comprehensive nature of the resources available, highlighting the diverse technological tools designed to foster learning and skill development.
A Space for Learning and Dreaming Big
For individuals like Debra Benders, this new facility represents a tangible opportunity to continue learning and to pursue ambitious dreams. “I’m going to learn how to DJ, I’m going to learn how to podcast,” she declared with enthusiasm. “I already know how to use the computer somewhat, but I’m going to get a little better on that.” Her forward-looking perspective underscores the potential of the lab to empower residents of all ages to acquire new skills and explore creative avenues.
Forging Pathways to Opportunity
The initiative received high praise from Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, who lauded the partnership for its dedication to creating new pathways to opportunity for all Brooklyn residents. “No matter where you grow up in Brooklyn, you get access to opportunities like everyone else,” Reynoso stated. He further elaborated on the impact of such collaborations, saying, “And today, with those partnerships like National Grid and our office, we’re going to really be able to make a difference for families this holiday season.”
Reynoso’s remarks underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering equitable access to resources and opportunities, particularly during the festive holiday season. The joint effort between National Grid and the Borough President’s office demonstrates a shared vision for empowering communities and ensuring that every resident has the chance to thrive.
The establishment of the computer lab and the preceding toy giveaway exemplify National Grid’s commitment to making a meaningful impact beyond its utility services. By investing in educational resources and community engagement, the company is helping to build a stronger, more connected, and more knowledgeable future for Brooklyn. The Season of Giving campaign, with its dual focus on immediate joy and long-term empowerment, has undoubtedly left a lasting positive impression on the Greenpoint community.