For the 11th straight year, one of Rio Linda’s most anticipated back-to-school traditions is returning to help local families prepare for the new school year.
The 11th Annual Char’s Konnected Backpack Event will take place on Saturday, August 1, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at 998 Oak Lane in Rio Linda. The event is completely free for children and will continue until all supplies have been distributed.
Organized by Konnected Clothing, the annual giveaway provides children with free backpacks filled with school supplies, along with free haircuts to help students start the school year with confidence. This year’s event will once again bring together dozens of volunteers, local businesses, nonprofits and community members who donate their time and resources to make the day a success.
According to event organizer Tommy Hall, the giveaway is about much more than backpacks.
“It’s about making sure every child has the opportunity to start school prepared,” Hall said during an appearance on the Radio Free Rio Linda podcast. He also spoke about how the event has grown into one of Rio Linda’s largest annual community outreach efforts and why investing in children today can change lives for years to come.
This year’s event is named in memory of Charolette Hargrove, Tommy’s daughter who sadly passed last year far, far too young. Her enthusiasm for the backpack giveaway left a lasting impression on everyone. Hall has said the event will continue to honor her memory each year.
The backpack giveaway has grown dramatically since its early years. Last year, volunteers distributed approximately 1,800 fully stocked backpacks. This year, organizers expect to hand out around 1,500 backpacks, along with school supplies, thanks to community donations and support from local organizations. Additional giveaways, including fishing rods donated by community partners, are also planned while supplies last.
Families are encouraged to arrive early. The event has become extremely popular, with supplies distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until everything is gone.
The event reflects what makes Rio Linda special—neighbors coming together to ensure local children begin the school year ready to learn. Every backpack, haircut, and school supply represents another investment in the future of our community.
Event Information
Char’s 11th Annual Konnected Backpack Event
- Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m. until supplies run out
- Location: 998 Oak Lane, Rio Linda
- Cost: Free
- Includes:
- Backpacks filled with school supplies
- Free haircuts
- Additional giveaways while supplies last
If you haven’t already, be sure to listen to Episode 2 of the Radio Free Rio podcast, where Tommy Hall shares the story behind Konnected Clothing, the inspiration for the backpack giveaway, and the impact the event has had on hundreds of local families over the years.
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