More than 80 parent leaders, students and UFT members came together at the Queens borough office on Nov. 23 for the Queens Power Summit, an event that offered a range of informative sessions designed to empower attendees with skills and knowledge to strengthen their communities.

The UFT, in partnership with Coalition for the Homeless, hosted its annual holiday toy drive and celebration on Dec. 7 for students living in temporary housing in New York City. UFT members donated over 1,000 toys and more than $2,200 to the effort to bring holiday joy to the students, who enjoyed a variety of crafts and games as well as face-painting, a magic show and a visit from Santa.

The UFT Middle Schools Division hosted its annual Thanksgiving Luncheon and winter coat giveaway on Nov. 23 for nearly 180 students living in temporary housing throughout New York City. Students explored a variety of arts and crafts activities, enjoyed an early holiday lunch and received brand-new coats, hats, gloves and socks donated by UFT members and staff.

More than 70 parents, guardians and children turned out on Nov. 9 for the UFT’s Staten Island Family Partnership Summit. The event, held at PS 20 on Staten Island, consisted of two morning plenary sessions, afternoon workshops and an exhibit fair.