The NY Islanders assist in back to school efforts

As Labor Day has passed and the calendar turns to September, the two things that come to mind are the return of NY Islanders hockey and back to school. Some parents feel the relief of their kids returning to school while the kids get to see some of their friends they've missed throughout the summer. For some, back to school can become a financial burden, as children across the nation and Long Island are inadequately equipped to begin the school year.

On Tuesday, the staff of the NY Islanders and Northwell Health assisted in packing 500 backpacks with supplies for those in need of assistance as the school year began. The blue backpacks with the Islanders logo front and center were stuffed with the necessities children need for school each day.

"It's going to help some kids and it's going to make their day," Joseph Interlandi, captain of the Northwell Health hockey team and a volunteer, said. "The kids are going to be really excited when they receive these."

This is not the first time the Islanders have given back as school is back in session. The organization has set up similar events in years past as they give back to those who have supported the team. Since John Ledecky took over as Owner, the team has been involved in community events across Long Island, with Ledecky typically at the forefront.

"It's just doing more," said Katie Perciavalle, Northwell Health's Director of Sponsorships and Experience Marketing. “It's a relationship that we build and helps us keep in contact in more ways than just the Play It Forward Scholarship Program."

The Islanders are preparing for training camp now around the corner, and while the assists on the ice are critical for team success, the ones off the ice are even more important.