U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) has honored Flying Food Group for donating book bags and laptop computers to 500 students in East Harlem.

The company distributed book bags and laptops at the 18th Annual Back to School Block Party, sponsored by Life Changers Church and Ministries International, Inc.

"It is with profound gratitude that I extend my appreciation to you for your unwavering commitment to the betterment of the community," Espaillat said. "As a representative of our district, I look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact of your support on the lives of individuals in East Harlem."

Also praising the donation was Rev. Felipe Ayala Jr., associate pastor of Life Changers, who said the Back to School Block Party faced challenges this year.

"With Flying Food Group's unwavering support, we were able to overcome these obstacles and provide essential resources to our community's young learners," Ayala said. "Your commitment to the well-being and education of these students is deeply appreciated and truly inspiring."

The donation from Flying Food Group enabled the church to also give book bags and laptops to families in need at two other community events.

"Your generosity rippled through these events, reaching families who were genuinely grateful for the assistance they received," Ayala wrote. "We received heartfelt messages of thanks from parents and caregivers who felt the positive impact of your contributions. One mother's words stood out: 'You guys are truly a blessing and are always supporting the community; continue to do God's work."

Ayala wrote that Flying Food Group's donation reflected a deep commitment to the community.

"Your partnership goes beyond mere philanthropy; it embodies a shared commitment to uplifting our community and making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most," wrote Ayala. "We are honored to have Flying Food Group as a steadfast ally in our mission to create a brighter future for our youth and families."

Life Changers Church and Ministry, 1578 Lexington Ave. in New York,  "brings together the down and out, the homeless and drug addicted to sit beside the up and coming." It is led by Bishop Johnnie Lee Harris Sr, who was first elected its pastor in 1975.

Espaillat represents New York's 13th Congressional District, which includes Upper Manhattan and the West Bronx. He's a former New York State Assemblyman and Senator who replaced longtime U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) in the seat in 2017.

Founded in 1983 by Sue Ling Gin, Flying Food Group provides food catering services to major airlines, including Air France, Aer Lingus. Lufthansa, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Swiss Air and TAP Air Portugal. The company is headquartered in Chicago.

In October, the Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust gave $20 million to Chicago's Field Museum, which announced it would re-name its Center for Education and  Public Programs in her honor.

Sue Ling Gin died in 2014.