Dillons in Arkansas City recently donated school supplies to Frances Willard Elementary School following its Kids in Need school supply drive.

Manager Steve Martinez said the majority of the supplies, which included markers, crayons, notebook paper, spiral notebooks, pencils, glue, scissors, backpacks and more, were donated by Dillons employees.

He said Frances Willard, 201 N. Fourth, was chosen because of its close proximity to Dillons, 425 N. Summit.

“We like to help with our local community,” Martinez said.

Students in Evelyn Shoup’s class were surprised when Martinez brought in the sacks of supplies. Shoup, math facilitator, and Dawna Pate, special education teacher, along with principal Jeff Shearon, thanked Martinez for his employees’ and customers’ generosity.

“It came as a surprise to us that Dillons was donating these school supplies,” Shearon said. “We appreciate this so much. Our students will greatly appreciate having these supplies to use throughout the year.”