CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A back-to-school giveaway dispensed more than 250 backpacks and scores of pencils, pens, erasers, calculators, thumb drives and note pads to local students, courtesy of the Carmichael Midas auto shop last weekend.

“Kids and parents were lining up even before we began the giveaway,” reported Midas store owner Kurt Swanson. “We felt great being able to support the community in this way. School supplies are a major expense for families.” The businessman also sprang for shave ice treats for more than 800 Saturday visitors.

Swanson’s volunteer team was joined by 2022 Golden Gloves champion Lorenzo Powell (20), who stuffed satchels with supplies and posed for selfies with fans. “I love doing this,” enthused Powell, who is scheduled to turn pro later this year. “I hope meeting me and seeing my medals will inspire other young people to take up the sport. Perhaps one of the kids I shook hands with today will end up a world champion.”

Carmichael Midas is located at 6840 Fair Oaks Blvd, Carmichael.