Indio hosting backpack giveaway starting Friday afternoon

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) - More than 1,800 free backpacks and a thousand free scoops of ice cream will be handed out tomorrow in Indio.

The annual giveaway helps local students prepare for the upcoming school year, while bringing the community together for an evening of fun.

It will take place during the "Food Truck Friday" event on Towne Street & Bliss Avenue in downtown Indio from 5 to 10 p.m.

Now in its fourth year, the mayor says the backpack giveaway has become a cherished tradition.

"This is important to support our kids on their first day of school, make them happy, give them some really exciting things to do, and that pride in starting school with a brand-new backpack," said Indio Mayor Elaine Holmes.

The backpacks were donated by Costco and several local businesses. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream is providing the free scoops.

Click here for more information on the event.