Alachua Verizon Wireless store will hold backpack giveaway on July 26

Press release from Round Room

ALACHUA, Fla. – 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.

Locally, the event will be held at the Verizon store at 15560 NW US Highway 441 in Alachua.

THE DETAILS:

  • “School Rocks Backpack Giveaway” takes place on Sunday, July 26 at 1 p.m. local time at participating TCC and Wireless Zone stores.
  • Families are invited to attend their local event to receive a free backpack, one per present child and while supplies last.
  • In total, more than 140,000 backpacks will be distributed throughout the day.
  • Since its inception, the initiative has gifted more than 1.6 million backpacks to families across the country.

“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.”

Additionally, this year, dozens of lucky 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 keychain. Those who receive this backpack will also be given a $250 Visa gift card that can be used for other school necessities such as new shoes, lunchboxes, or writing 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.

The Round Room Way: Community at the Core
Philanthropy is woven into the fabric of Round Room, driven by the passion and creativity of its employees and store owners. From local backpack giveaways enhanced with dunk tanks, obstacle courses, and partner giveaways, to national quarterly initiatives that support teachers, pet rescues and those affected by domestic violence, the company is committed to making a real impact. With over $11 million donated through its community grant program, benefiting more than 2,000 local nonprofits, Round Room continues to uplift communities through both grassroots efforts and large-scale giving.

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