For the 8th consecutive school year, Dillon Guyer, owner of Guyer Travel International, is working with Rochester Schools to provide more than 300 fully stocked backpacks to students in need.

“This is a community effort involving dozens of volunteers and contributors,” said Guyer. “We’ve given thousands of backpacks to students in need over the years.”

According to Guyer, the group raises money through community donations to fill each backpack. Each bag includes a binder, notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, glue sticks, pencil erasers, crayons, colored pencils, and scissors.

“Students get to select from up to 30 different backpack designs,” said Guyer. “This year, we’re including a set of headphones, too.”

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 5 nights, flights, and spending allowances,” said Guyer. “All paid for by Guyer Travel International.”

Backpacks will be stuffed and distributed by teachers and volunteers at National Night Out on August 2nd from 5:30-8pm, at the Rochester Common. Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. An additional 100 backpacks will be given to school administrators to distribute as needed when the school year begins. 

The deadline for donations is July 31st. For more information or to make a contribution, contact Dillon Guyer at (603) 973-0812.