The Kernersville Family YMCA helped a record number of local students get ready for the new school year through its annual Bright Beginnings program.

The 27th annual event served 168 children ahead of the 2026-27 school year, the largest number in the program’s history. More than 200 volunteers, YMCA staff, board members and community partners participated.

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Bright Beginnings pairs children with volunteers for a back-to-school shopping trip, providing new clothing, athletic shoes and backpacks filled with grade-level school supplies.

“Seeing the smiles on the faces of so many children, families, volunteers and community partners throughout the day was truly inspiring,” Kernersville Family YMCA Executive Director Adam Cardwell said. 

The program is designed to help ease the financial burden of back-to-school shopping for families. According to the YMCA, one in four children across Northwest North Carolina lives in poverty, while more than half of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

This year’s event was presented by Brightspeed, with additional support from Fleet Feet Winston-Salem, The Way Fellowship and numerous local organizations. Community partners included the Kiwanis Club of Kernersville, Kernersville Police Department, Kernersville Fire Rescue, High Point University Athletics, Novant Health, Savage Roasters Coffee, and Phocused by Darryl.

The YMCA also recognized co-chairs Taylor Mabe and Whitney Hunter, along with the Bright Beginnings planning committee and dozens of local businesses, churches, and volunteers involved in making the record-breaking event possible.

Cardwell concluded: “Because of the support from our volunteers, donors and community partners, 168 children begin the school year with confidence, encouragement, and the supplies they need to succeed.”