Saugerties Kiwanis is pleased to support the Ulster County Deputy Sheriff’s Police Benevolent Association’s 5th Annual Back to School Drive with a $500 contribution.
The donation check was presented Thursday, August 27, at the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office headquarters in Kingston. Deputy Justin Watson, who coordinates the backpack distribution program and its events, accepted the contribution on behalf of the initiative.
“Thanks to the Saugerties Kiwanis, this funding will help many more families in need,” Watson said. “I thank the Kiwanis for their support.”
Last year, the program distributed backpacks and school supplies to more than 400 children across Ulster County. No child was turned away. This year’s additional funding will help the program serve even more families and ensure that local students have the supplies they need to begin the new school year with confidence.
The 5th Annual Back to School Drive will be held Sunday, August 30, 2026, from noon to 3 p.m. at Barmann Park, 3 South Clinton Avenue in Kingston. Children must be present to receive school supplies.
In addition to the backpack and school-supply distribution, the community event will include a basketball tournament, family activities, free youth haircuts, free ice cream, face painting, balloon twisting and glitter tattoos.
Saugerties Kiwanis is proud to support Deputy Watson’s efforts and an initiative that directly benefits children and families throughout our community. Helping young people begin the school year prepared and ready to learn reflects the Kiwanis commitment to improving the lives of children—one child and one community at a time.
