October 15, 2024 — More than two years after the mass shooting at a Tops Friendly Markets in Buffalo that killed 10 people, the community is still looking for answers and support. That’s why PEF sponsored a community giveback event on October 12.
The event gave a chance for the community to gather supplies, books and other needs for school children. The books were donated as part of AFT’s Reading Opens the World program, which has distributed more than 10 million books for free to children across the U.S.
PEF also partnered with members from the Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to give the community a chance to get to know the agencies while also working to recruit new employees from the community.
“There are state jobs here for the community, plenty of books, and other supplies,” said PEF President Wayne Spence, who attended with other Statewide Officers from the union. “We want the community to know that PEF is here for them, and we keep them in our hearts.”
PEF also partnered with local organizations like the Buffalo Urban League and fraternities like Phi Beta Sigma to make sure the community has the services they need and that they are registered to vote. In addition, shredding services were on hand, allowing members of the community to safely dispose of their old documents and sensitive materials.
Hundreds of books were handed out and several visitors filled out job applications to potentially join the ranks of OPWDD and OMH in the near future.
Teachers, daycare administrators and other educators appreciated the book giveaway, loading their trunks for their students.
“I’m very glad the Union is here, this community needs healing,” said Sandra McAdor, a General Business Instructor at the Department of Corrections and Community Supervisor (DOCCS). “This is a community that is still experiencing trauma. Bringing books and these supplies means that there is a chance for people to escape that trauma. It can be very healing and I’m proud to be a part of that.”
“I’m also proud of what we were able to do today,” said President Spence. “The people here are still recovering, but it is great that we’ve been able to help them, even a little bit.”