U-46 families receive backpacks filled with school supplies

More than 100 free backpacks were given to Elgin Area School District U-46 families at the inaugural Elgin McDonald's school supply backpack giveaway event held Thursday, Aug. 9.

This McDonald's owned and operated by the Bear family since 1967 strongly supports education and has over 50 years of giving back in Elgin.

Backpacks were not the only freebie at this event. The Bear family also handed out coupons for a free hamburger and cheeseburger, fun times activity books for the kids, and smile stickers.

Owner and operator David Bear couldn't have been happier with the night's events. “We are proud of the role we have maintained in Elgin over the years, and we are happy to see the community come together for this back to school event,” Bear said. “It's just how the end of summer should be.”

The Bear Family Restaurants location where the event was held at 1480 Larkin Ave. is accessible to all Elgin families.

The local schools were thrilled to have the Bear Family host this event. Wendy Smith, whose daughter attends Abbott Middle School, said she is very grateful for the kindness David Bear has shown by giving away backpacks filled with school supplies to the local U-46 families.

The Bear family looks forward to working with many of the Elgin schools this year as they continue to host their beloved McTeacher's Nights.

This event was hosted by the Bear Family Restaurants and owner/operator David Bear. Like them on Facebook or visit bearfamilyrestaurants.com.

For information about events provided by the Elgin McDonald's, contact Julie Travers, community relations director, at julie.travers@comcast.net.