FISHERS, IN – Mount Vernon’s local Verizon store at 1558 Coshocton Ave. will join 11 other Central Ohio stores in a free backpack giveaway Sunday at 1 p.m.
For the 14th consecutive year, more than 140,000 students and families across the U.S. will receive a much-needed gift heading into back-to-school season.
Round Room LLC, one of the country’s largest Verizon authorized retailers, is continuing its commitment to the communities it serves by giving away more than $3 million worth of free backpacks at its stores.
“Back-to-school costs continue to put pressure on many families, and something as simple as a backpack can make a meaningful impact,” said Scott Moorehead, CEO of Round Room.
“For 14 years, our backpack giveaway has been one of the most memorable days of the year for our employees, franchisees, and local communities, as we come together to help students start the school year with confidence.
“Backpacks are essential for students, and we’re grateful we can give families one less thing to worry about.”
Families are invited to attend to receive a free backpack for each child present while supplies last.
Additionally, this year dozens of students will be “Golden Ruler” recipients, winning additional funds for back-to-school essentials.
Highlighting the golden rule of treating others with kindness, 47 randomly selected stores across the country will have one backpack that contains a golden ruler key chain.
Those who receive this backpack will also receive a $250 Visa gift card they can use for other school necessities such as shoes, lunchboxes, or writing supplies.
Combating rising prices on back-to-school supplies
Families are expected to spend an average of $922 on back-to-school supplies this year and nearly half of parents expect to spend more than they did in 2025, according to a new report.
As prices continue to rise, initiatives like Round Room’s “School Rocks Backpack Giveaway” serve a significant purpose in helping families across the country.
Since its inception, the initiative has gifted more than 1.6 million backpacks to families across the country.
Click here to learn more about Round Room and its philanthropic commitments.