The United Way of Delaware County’s Supplies for Scholars events were held throughout the county last week and helped prepare more than 2,000 students for the start of the school year.

The main event for Supplies for Scholars was held July 25-26 at Willis Education Center with a series of mobile events in Ashley, Sunbury, Delaware and Lewis Center in late July and early August.

Kelsey Fox, the United Way’s director of housing & community solutions, said last week that during the events, more than 2,200 students were provided with essential school supplies. She added the main events at Willis saw the largest numbers of students.

Fox said the United Way believes hope is a “measurable outcome” for the event.

“In addition to the community support received each year, at each event, what makes these truly successful is the spirit of radical hospitality incorporated at every level,” Fox said. “Our staff and volunteers are trained to meet each family exactly where they are to ensure they leave feeling valued and encouraged.”

Lauren Mussenden, the United Way’s Strengthening Families manager, said her favorite part of the event is interacting with students.

“I love so many portions of the event but there is one that sticks out each year. … I really enjoy interacting with students and getting to see the cool backpacks they’ve picked for the upcoming school year,” Mussenden said. “Their smiles just light up the room!”

Mussenden said the United Way will continue to hold the event in the future.

“We can’t wait to see students and their families next year,” Mussenden said. “We will once again host six events around the county to best serve the community.”

More information about the United Way can be found at https://www.liveuniteddelawarecounty.org/.

Glenn Battishill can be reached at 740-413-0903.