WM marks 10 years of backpack donations to Gifford Youth Achievement Center

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Waste Management continued a decade-long tradition Wednesday by handing out 180 backpacks packed with school supplies to campers at the Gifford Youth Achievement Center.

The donation marks the 10th consecutive year WM has supported students through the program. Campers also got a visit from CARTer, Indian River County’s official recycling mascot, who promotes the CARTer’s Corner app that helps residents figure out what can be recycled.

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“Supporting students and investing in the future of our communities is something we are passionate about,” said Debbie Perez, senior account executive for WM. “We are honored to continue this tradition of helping local students start the school year with confidence.”

The backpacks went to children enrolled in the GYAC Summer Camp, which mixes academic enrichment with recreational activities to keep students engaged and learning during the summer months.

Over the past 10 years, the company’s annual backpack drive has helped hundreds of local students get ready for the first day of school.

WM team members, GYAC staff and CARTer joined the campers for the distribution.