Food pantries run by schools in the UFT’s United Community Schools network are lifelines for hundreds of needy families across New York City. The need was especially felt in late fall as a federal government shutdown delayed SNAP benefits for many and a surge in ICE detentions made immigrant populations wary.

About 150 students living in temporary housing enjoyed a day of crafts, games, face-painting and fun at UFT headquarters on Nov. 22 to celebrate Thanksgiving and receive new winter gear courtesy of UFT members’ generosity. Headed by the UFT’s Middle Schools Division, the event provided each student with a new winter coat, a pair of gloves or mittens, a scarf and a hat to keep them warm in the coming winter months.

UFT members celebrated African heritage and honored educators, students and colleagues at the 22nd annual UFT African Heritage Committee Awards Dinner on Feb. 7 at Antun’s in Queens Village.