NEW YORK — The Howard Beach Civic Association announced its annual Spring Cleanup Drive this week, mobilizing local volunteers for a communitywide effort. Scheduled for Saturday, April 20, 2026, the initiative aims to enhance the appearance and ecological health of local parks and public spaces. "Our community thrives when we all pitch in," stated Janice Giallo, President of the Howard Beach Civic Association, during a Tuesday evening press conference at the James A. Van Bramer Community Center. "This year, we are particularly focused on the areas around Charles Park and the 165th Avenue shoreline." CommunityWide Effort Targets Key Areas The cleanup operation will concentrate on several key Howard Beach landmarks. Volunteers will work on clearing debris and litter from Charles Park, a vital green space for local families, and along the bustling Cross Bay Boulevard commercial district. Efforts also extend to the perimeter of the Public School 232 campus on 100th Street. Ms. Giallo emphasized the importance of resident participation, noting that over 150 volunteers have already signed up. The target is to exceed last year's turnout of 200 participants, who collectively removed more than 3 tons of waste. She urged more residents to join in, particularly those living near the Hawtree Creek area. Local Businesses Support Initiative Several Howard Beach businesses are stepping up to support the cleanup. Frank's Pizzeria on Cross Bay Boulevard will provide complimentary refreshments for volunteers, while Howard Beach Home Depot has donated gloves, rakes, and trash bags. These local partnerships are crucial for the event's success. "It's our neighborhood, and we have a responsibility to keep it pristine," commented Michael DeMarco, owner of Frank's Pizzeria, on Wednesday morning. "We've been serving this community for over 30 years, and supporting efforts like this is simply part of being a good neighbor." Environmental Impact and Beautification Goals The Spring Cleanup Drive is not merely about aesthetics; it also serves a critical environmental purpose. By removing plastics and other pollutants, the initiative helps protect local waterways, including the ecologically sensitive Jamaica Bay. The Civic Association collaborates with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation to ensure proper waste disposal. According to data from the Department of Sanitation, illegal dumping incidents in the Howard Beach area saw a 12% decrease in 2025 following increased community cleanup efforts. This statistic underscores the direct positive impact of organized volunteerism. The cleanup also aligns with broader citywide . Volunteer Information and Registration Residents interested in volunteering for the April 20, 2026 cleanup can register online through the Howard Beach Civic Association's website. Checkin for volunteers will begin at 9:00 AM at the Charles Park main entrance, located at 150th Avenue and 99th Street. All necessary equipment, including safety vests and collection tools, will be provided. Youth volunteers aged 1217 must have a signed parental consent form to participate. The event is expected to conclude by 1:00 PM, followed by a small appreciation gathering for all participants at a designated area in Charles Park. The association encourages carpooling due to limited street parking around the park. Future Community Engagement Projects Looking beyond the spring cleanup, the Howard Beach Civic Association plans several other community engagement projects for 2026. These include a summer concert series at the Overlook Park amphitheater and a fall treeplanting initiative along 157th Avenue. Community feedback sessions will be held monthly at the community center to gather input on these and other local needs. "We want to create opportunities for everyone to feel invested in Howard Beach's future," Ms. Giallo added. "These events are not just about improving our physical environment, but also about strengthening the bonds within our tightknit community. We saw tremendous success with the and hope to replicate that spirit." Frequently Asked Questions About the Cleanup What areas will be covered during the cleanup? Volunteers will focus on Charles Park, the Cross Bay Boulevard commercial strip, and the vicinity of PS 232 on 100th Street. Additional teams will address specific problem areas identified by residents. Do I need to bring my own tools? No, the Howard Beach Civic Association and their sponsors will provide gloves, trash bags, rakes, and other necessary equipment. Volunteers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and closedtoe shoes. How can local businesses contribute? Businesses can still donate refreshments, supplies, or offer discounts to volunteers on the day of the event. They can contact the Civic Association directly through their website to coordinate support. Is this event suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome to participate, but those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or gu
