Comcast Donates Nearly 2,000 Backpacks Across the Southeast to Help Students Gear Up for Success 

Partnerships with community organizations equip thousands of students with the tools they need to excel in the classroom. 

As students across the Southeast prepare to return to school, Comcast is helping ensure they have the tools they need to start the year strong. Through its Team UP volunteer initiative, Comcast distributed nearly 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, hygiene items, snacks, and digital resource information to students in Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Arkansas. 

Helping Students Get the Resources They Need

This effort is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to expand access to digital tools and opportunities. The backpack giveaways were hosted in partnership with local school districts and nonprofit organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs, Inspiredu, and 100 Black Men chapters, reinforcing Comcast’s dedication to supporting students and families. 

“Comcast is proud to support students and families with the resources they need to succeed,” said Mike McArdle, Senior Vice President of Comcast’s Big South Region. “Whether it’s backpacks, laptops, or internet access, we are committed to helping students thrive in and out of the classroom.” 

In cities like Atlanta, Savannah, Charleston, Knoxville, and others, Comcast employees volunteered their time to assemble and distribute backpacks during community events and school district partnerships. In addition to supplies, many students also received information about Internet Essentials, Comcast’s low-cost internet program for eligible families. 

Lift Zones for Digital Learning

The backpack initiative complements Comcast’s broader efforts in the region, including the launch of Lift Zones, safe spaces with free WiFi where students and families can access the internet and digital learning tools. Comcast has opened more than 1,250 Lift Zones nationwide. 

“Partnering with Comcast to become Atlanta’s first Flagship Lift Zone has been a game changer,” said Richard Hicks, CEO and President of Inspiredu. “The impact has been life changing for many of the community members who visit our space. Technology opens doors, and we’re grateful to Comcast for helping us keep those doors open.” 

Comcast’s Team UP program empowers employees to give back year-round through hands-on service, helping to strengthen the communities where they live and work. This summer’s backpack drive is one of many ways Comcast is investing in students and families across the Southeast. 

For more information about Comcast’s community programs and digital access initiatives, visit https://corporate.comcast.com/company/impact.