Community

Our Future Generation partners with Macy’s to give back

The Riverhead-based non-profit Our Future Generation is partnering with Macy’s to give back to local students in need this school year. Two separate events are scheduled for Aug. 29.

The first is Shop for a Cause, a national event in which people can purchase shopping passes and receive discounts at Macy’s stores the day of the event.

“You pay $5 for it and you get 30 percent off that day,” said Gwen Mack, a member of Our Future Generation. “Also they have a coupon on the side of [the pass] and you put that in and you can win like a $500 gift certificate if you go into that drawing.”

People can purchase the passes by calling (631-613-6238) or emailing ([email protected]) Our Future Generation. All proceeds from the passes will go toward the organization.

This is the 10th year of Shop For A Cause, but the first time participating for Our Future Generation.

“Macy’s is proud to invite our customers to join us in giving back to causes that make a difference both locally and nationally,” said Martine Reardon, Macy’s chief marketing officer, in a statement. “For the last nine years, Macy’s Shop For A Cause program has raised many millions of dollars for thousands of charities across the country. We look forward to offering our customers and associates an easy way to make a positive impact in our communities while enjoying great savings at Macy’s.”

Additionally, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. that same day, Kids Day will be held at Stotsky Park. Attendees can play on a Jump ‘N Splash and enjoy hot dogs, cotton candy and snow-cones. School supplies, such as paper, notebooks and backpacks, will be distributed at the event.

Ms. Mack said that Macy’s gave Our Future Generation a donation to purchase the school supplies as well as helped fund the event’s entertainment. Best Market has also agreed to donate to the event. More sponsors are being sought out.

Our Future Generation is an organization designed to “encourage, uplift and promote our youth to become better citizens in their communities.”

“There’s so many kids out there that don’t have school supplies to go back to school with so we try to help the parents, especially the ones who really need it,” she said. “There are so many people in need now. Everybody is like one paycheck away from poverty. So we try to help children. That’s why we’re called Our Future Generation — we’re trying to help the future generation.”

[email protected]