SC New York News

Assemblyman Phil Palmesano has issued a reminder to constituents about the 2nd annual Student Art Contest organized by Donate Life New York State. The contest, which coincides with Donate Life Month, invites students to express their thoughts and stories on organ donation through art. Submissions are due by February 28, with winners announced on March 21.

Entries should be submitted by a teacher or parent and must include the student's name, grade level, age, address, phone number, and email. The contest is divided into four categories: elementary (fourth and fifth grades), middle school (sixth through eighth grades), high school (ninth and tenth grades), and high school (eleventh and twelfth grades).

The artwork will be displayed in the Legislative Office Building during April's Donate Life Month. Winners will receive a $100 gift card and recognition at a press conference scheduled for April 8 in Albany.

Palmesano emphasized the importance of organ donation: “Organ donation is a cause near and dear to my heart, so I am always happy to help promote this important issue however I can." He noted that New York ranks 47th out of 52 registries in total organ donor enrollment with a rate of 50%, compared to the national average of 64%. Despite having the third-greatest need for organs, New York has the sixth-worst enrollment rate.

Palmesano encouraged participation in the contest as a means to raise awareness about organ donation. He urged those who have not registered as donors to consider doing so: "If you have already registered to become an organ donor, thank you. If you have not, please talk to your family and consider it as you can help save the lives of your fellow New Yorkers."

To register as an organ donor, individuals can visit their local DMV or the NYS Donate Life Registry website.