Back to School 2021

Far Rockaway, New York, August 23, 2021 — St. John’s Episcopal Hospital (SJEH) hosted its 5^th Annual Community Wellness and Back to School event in a new way. In past years, the hospital hosted a large community event with over 50 vendors, games and music. However, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic the community event was re-imagined for the second consecutive year. The pre-registered event provided 500 children with backpacks containing back to school supplies including hand sanitizers, face masks, pencils, notebooks, crayons, and other essential items. Parents and guardians were also able to schedule their child’s well visits hassle-free on-site.

This yearly event has become a hospital and community staple in which families look forward to attending.

Faced with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the hospital was determined not to cancel the event, but to once again “reimagine” it instead. Taking into account proven safety standards, the hospital staggered attendance by asking the public to select specific time slots to pick-up their “Grab-And-Go” bags. This helped to ensure order and continue to maintain social distancing.

“While we’re still faced with these challenging times, we wanted to push forward and host this event for the benefit of the community, especially the children. Back to school is always an exciting time for kids and we wanted to continue to be a part of that excitement,” said Renee Hastick-Motes, Vice President of External Affairs at St. John’s. “Healthcare is the best back to school supply”.

The hospital raised funds to purchase the school supplies through the generous donations of hospital staff, community members, local organizations, and the St. John’s Episcopal Hospital Auxiliary.

“In everything that we do, we always have the community’s best interest at heart,” said Jerry Walsh, Chief Executive Officer. “We were determined to continue our mission especially during these trying times. And, by seeing the smiles on the faces of families and children I believe that we were able to make a positive impact on their lives.”

To schedule an appointment for your child with a St. John’s Medical Group pediatrician at 495 Beach 20^th Street, Far Rockaway, NY, please call (347) 619-5950.