SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) -- National Grid, the electric company that provides Syracuse's power grid, is giving free backpacks to school-age children in order to "invest in the future workforce."

Citing a study from the National Retail Federation showing that the average American is gradually spending more each year on their kids' school supplies (in 2025, they measured $143.77), National Grid is holding a series of events around New York State, providing free backpacks and other school supplies.

Two of the events are in central New York: • Aug. 20, 1-7 p.m.: Connected Community Schools, at 207 N. James St. in Rome • Sept. 1, 1-5 p.m.: Bethany Baptist Church, at 149 Beattie St. in Syracuse

National Grid CEO Robert Simmons said the backpacks were "more than a gesture," but rather an i

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