VIPs and kids celebrate the Carmichael Midas store’s annual backpack giveaway. Standing are, from left, Supervisor Rich Desmond’s representative Kendra Johnson, boxer Lorenzo Powell, store owners Kurt and Victoria Swanson, Carmichael Improvement District Director Nick Bloise and Carmichael Honorary Mayor Mirana Viani.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Carmichael Midas last weekend dispensed more than 200 backpacks and scores of pencils, pens, erasers, calculators and note pads to students. The auto repair shop’s back-to-school giveaway has been a Carmichael tradition for three years.

“Kids and parents were lining up an hour before we were supposed to start,” reported Midas store owner Kurt Swanson. “We feel great supporting the community in this way. School supplies are a major expense for families.”

Swanson also sprang for doughnuts and soft drinks for visitors. The businessman’s generosity earned a thumbs up from kids and parents.

Pro boxer Lorenzo Powell adjusts a backpack for Ja’Myiah Brydsong, 3. Grandma La Keisha Bonds and Davion Wiseman, 11, look on.

“I’ve got five kids and I appreciate this so much,” said Carmichael mother Ruba Rizin. “I usually spend lots of money on school supplies at this time of year. This giveaway really helps.”

Swanson’s volunteers were joined by 2022 Golden Gloves champion Lorenzo Powell, who stuffed satchels and posed for selfies with fans.  The pro boxer has super featherweight fights scheduled in Stockton and the Bay Area in the coming weeks. Through a long friendship with the Swanson family, Sacramento-based Powell has loaned a celebrity presence to all the store’s events.

“Since I’ve turned pro, I’ve moved into a faster, more serious world,” explained the 21-year-old. “Doing this event for Kurt keeps me humble and grounded. When kids see my medals and trophies, I hope they get interested in my sport and gain the belief that they can accomplish anything. 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. The phone number is 916-604-8355.