By Mike Kinney
Metro by T-Mobile in Richmond held its annual school supplies distribution on Friday, Aug. 9, giving away about 200 backpacks filled with supplies to prepare local kids for the new school year in a single day.
Every year, the family-owned business at 12800 San Pablo Ave. (corner of Esmond) invites families to stop by and pick up the free backpacks, whether or not they make a purchase. Tthe store opened at 9 a.m. Friday and had run out of backpacks by 5 p.m.
Owner Ian Taha said it feels good to do the giveaways. The store also hosts toy giveaways every year during the holidays.
“It was a real good feeling when the kids came in and to see the smiles on their faces,” he said. “It’s emotional. I’m a dad too and to see these kids smile and being happy is such a wonderful thing.”
