Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry held its 11^th annual school supplies distribution event at Polk County High School on Aug. 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Supplies were donated by community members and local churches, and then organized into kits that fulfill the requirements for each grade.

Approximately 230 Polk County children received school supply kits and their choice of book bag within the first hour of the event, according to Thermal Belt Outreach Client Services Manager Michelle Reedy. Blue Ridge Community Health Services performed health screenings alongside the Columbus Lions Club, which provided eye screenings.

Other local entities such as the Polk County Public Library, Steps to HOPE, Polk County Wellness Center, Collins Dental Center and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office were in attendance passing out gifts to children.

“I look at this like a crisis prevention program,” said Reedy. “It has a huge impact on our children and gives them an equal step on their education.”

“These people have value in our community, and I’m glad that Outreach is able to help them; nothing compares to this,” she added.

Reedy’s team of volunteers spent more than a week preparing the school cafeteria for the event.

Those who were unable to attend but are in need of school supply assistance are encouraged to visit the Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry center located at 134 White Drive in Columbus.