11:46 a.m.
Saturday, July 31, 2021 11:45 am

Sgt. Michael Miehle, left, and Officer Michael Brinkman with a happy student showing the backpacks to be given out. (City of Rochester photo)

For the seventh consecutive school year, Dillon Guyer, owner of Guyer Travel International, is working with Rochester Schools to provide fully stocked backpacks to students in need.

"This is a community effort involving dozens of volunteers and contributors," said Guyer. "We've given over 2000 backpacks to students in need over the past several years."

According to Guyer, the group raises thousands of dollars worth of supplies to fill each backpack. Each bag includes a binder, notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, glue sticks, pencil erasers, crayons, colored pencils, and scissors. Extra supplies are sometimes available upon special request, based on need and circumstance.

"Students get to select from up to 18 different backpack designs," said Guyer. "We also include a snack or special treat for the first day of school."

Organizers are still seeking donations and financial contributions. In order to encourage more community support, Guyer Travel International is holding a getaway vacation raffle to entice potential donors and sponsors.

"Donations valued at $10 or more gains you entry to win a free cruise up to five nights, flights, and spending allowances," said Guyer. "All paid for by Guyer Travel International."

The deadline for donations is today. For more information or to make a contribution, contact Dillon Guyer at (603) 973-0812. Backpacks will be stuffed and distributed by teachers and volunteers in the fall.