More than a thousand kids in towns like Williamson, Manchester, Geneva, Waterloo, and Wolcott are heading back to school with brand-new backpacks — and big smiles — thanks to their local McDonald’s.
Stores across the Finger Lakes are giving away over 7,000 backpacks filled with school supplies this week, part of a region-wide push to help families get ready for the new school year. No purchase is needed — just a child present and ready to gear up.
Free supplies, no strings attached
The giveaways kicked off earlier this week and continue through August 20. Each location hosts a two-hour event where families can stop by, grab a backpack, and meet the local team behind the effort.
The Williamson McDonald’s, at the corner of Route 104 and Route 21, will hold its giveaway on August 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. In Manchester, families can stop by the Route 96 location during the same timeframe that afternoon.
Geneva’s event happens the next morning, August 20, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hamilton Street McDonald’s. That same day, the Waterloo McDonald’s on Mound Road will host families from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by the Wolcott event on Whiskey Hill Road from 4 to 6 p.m.
Each of these events is led by the owner/operators of the stores — including Abdul Mowla, Tim and Mari Potter, and Ren Weichbrodt — who are teaming up with schools and local groups to make it all happen.
Building confidence, one bag at a time
The goal is simple: to help kids start the year feeling confident and prepared, without adding stress for parents.
It’s also a chance to bring communities together, with McDonald’s staff, volunteers, and civic leaders joining forces to make the giveaways happen. Events are first come, first served, and supplies are limited to one backpack per child.
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