Carolina Panthers, David & Nicole Tepper Foundation Hand Out Backpacks to Students

In a groundbreaking effort, the David & Nicole Tepper Foundation joined forces with the Carolina Panthers to distribute 38,000 supply-filled backpacks. Students across both Carolinas got the bags, breaking past records for Classroom Central's biggest giveaway.

"This is more than a donation — it's the largest backpack contribution Classroom Central has received and a commitment to removing barriers for students and helping teachers thrive," said Karen Calder, Executive Director of Classroom Central, according to Carolina Sports Live.

The initiative adds 13,000 extra bags to the usual 25,000 yearly gifts through Backpacks & Basics. When school starts in 2025-26, over 52,000 kids will have fresh supplies in hand.

Students in six North Carolina areas will get supplies: Charlotte-Mecklenburg, Gaston County, Iredell-Statesville, Union County, Kannapolis, and Lancaster County. Two South Carolina districts made the list, too.

"Supporting students and teachers is a priority for us, and we're grateful to continue our work with Classroom Central to uplift communities across the Carolinas through education," said David and Nicole Tepper, per Panthers.com.

This boost pushes Classroom Central toward its big five-year target: reaching 104,000 students by 2029. They want to assist 54% of local teachers and put $14 million worth of supplies in classrooms.

At Nations Ford Elementary, the Learning Locker started in 2024. Now it's growing to three more schools. Kids and teachers can grab what they need all year long: no waiting required.

Since 2002, the Panthers have backed Classroom Central's work. Just last year, when Hurricane Helene struck, the Teppers stepped up with $3 million to fix storm damage across both states.