As more adults struggle, community offers resources for back-to-school

(BINGHAMTON, N.Y.) It is no secret that in today’s economy, many Americans are struggling to make ends meet. New census data shows that nearly 90 million American adults have difficulty paying for usual household expenses, of which over 5 million are New Yorkers. 

With the first day of school around the corner, local parents are feeling the financial pressures of getting their children ready for the new school year. 

Residents of the Southern Tier are coming together to alleviate some of that stress. In the coming days, there will be a number of bookbag drives and giveaways hosted by different Broome County organizations. Two local entrepreneurs are also collaborating to provide another support for overall well-being and mental health: cosmetology services. 

Lanasha Ellis of Beauty By Lanasha and Chianti Glover of Queens Travel The World traveling agency are teaming up to hold a back-to-school giveaway that will include hair, nails, and make-up services. 

Glover told VNN these services are very important to a young lady. 

“Getting your hair and nails done and having nice clothes not only makes you look good, but you feel good as well, which adds to your self-confidence,” Glover said.

All ages and genders are welcome at this event. Free face painting, backpacks and school supplies will also be available. 

Sham Crowned You will be on deck to provide free hairstyles for young men.

Local barber Danny Willams is no stranger to the importance of appearance when those back-to-school bells ring. He will be holding his own event the following week, providing haircuts for school-age children free of charge. 

Williams said it is a service he has been providing annually for the past 13 years to give back to the community he calls home. 

“Everyone isn't privileged like most, and a haircut can boost a kid's self-esteem,” Williams said. “It's important to me because at one point in my life I was one of those unfortunate kids who had to go without for years.” 

The Johnson City School (JCS) district will also be providing their elementary students with all the essential school supplies needed for a successful school year. 

Quanisha Harper is a parent of four children at JCS. She said she often feels stressed ensuring her kids have what they need for school. 

“I definitely think it's a major help that Johnson City is providing free supplies this year,” Harper said. “The money saved from supplies can go to other things that kids need, especially with the seasons changing soon. Most will need new clothing to combat the weather change.” 

Information on the above back-to-school events is as follows: 

Event: Bookbag & School Supply Giveaway for elementary & middle school students

Date and Time: September 2, 2023, from 11am-2pm

Location: At the MLK Promenade next to Boscov’s on Court Street in Binghamton, NY

Hosted by the Broome County MLK commission, Planet Fitness and the Tabernacle United Methodist Church in Binghamton, NY  

Event: Free Hair, Nails and Make-up Services

Date and Time: September 3, 2023, from 12-3pm 

Location: Binghamton’s Rec Park, 106 Laurel Ave, Binghamton, NY  

For more information contact Nanay Felicity or Chianti Glover on Facebook

Event: Danny’s Annual Back to School Haircuts 

Date and Time: September 5 and 6, 2023, from 4:30-8:30pm

Location: NoMa Community Center, 30 Main Street, Binghamton, NY