Verizon Backpack Giveaway in July 2017-Truth!
Summary of eRumor:
A Verizon backpack giveaway promotion that was held in July 2017 sparked questions on social media.
The Truth:
Social media posts about a Verizon giving away backpacks full of school supplies in July 2017 were real.
The Verizon backpack giveaway was scheduled to take place on a first-come, first-serve basis at local “Wireless Zone” Verizon dealers between 1 and 4 p.m. on July 23, 2017, the company posted on it’s official Facebook page:
Free backpacks with school supplies will be given out on a first-come, first serve basis at Wireless Zone, your local Verizon Authorized Retailer! A child must be present to claim their free backpack – no purchases necessary, just good community fun! (Note: There are NO TICKETS for this event but follow the ticket link for participating locations)
A full list of Wireless Zones taking part in the the Verizon backpack giveaway can be found here. In explaining why the company was giving away backpacks, Verizon said its stores are locally owned and operated by franchisors, and “actively being part of and giving back to the communities in which we live and serve are a part of our core values!”
As part of the promotion, Verizon encouraged customers to take post photos of themselves with the free backpacks. That will likely generate more questions about the promotion after it begins.
Also, be on the lookout of any scams or hoaxes that play off the Verizon backpack giveaway. Make sure offers come from an official company social media account, or from a licensed dealer, and never provide your personal information over the phone or on social media.