With many schools across the nation returning to a full year of in-person learning, RNR Tire Express, 1848 E. Highland Drive, Fort Smith, is supporting the community by giving away free backpacks and school supplies to kids.

RNR franchises across the United States are participating in the back-to-school initiative. The supplies include, but are not limited to, notebooks, paper and writing utensils. Through Saturday, Aug. 14, customers can visit any participating RNR location and inquire about receiving a free back-to-school bundle while supplies last. The promotion varies by location; see store for complete details.

“At RNR we preach ‘serve, not service,’ and that is the philosophy we incorporate into our work with both tire sales and serving our communities. Back-to-school season can be an anxious time for parents and kids, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to help with families in need,” said Larry Sutton, founder and President of RNR Tire Express. “We’re looking forward to continuing the tradition this year of supporting families in neighboring communities, and are thankful we have the opportunity to make a positive impact in the towns where we operate.”

This year marks the seventh consecutive year that RNR franchise partners have participated in this charitable back-to-school initiative. In each of the last three years, the participating franchisees have seen their stores backpack donation count increase each time. Beginning with donating 1,000 backpacks in 2018, RNR saw an uptick of approximately 3,100 backpacks in 2019, and cleared 3,300 in 2020.

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