BRATTLEBORO — The United Way of Windham County held its first annual Handbags for HOPE event on April 24.
The event honored the role of women in philanthropy in Windham County and celebrated April as the Month of the Young Child, raising what it said was more than $10,000 for United Way's Fund for Quality Early Education.
Through that fund, United Way provides grants to early childhood educators and caregivers for professional development, program improvement, and program enrichment.
Handbags for HOPE featured a silent and live auction of 80 unique items, with Jean Gilbert offering spirited commentary as auctioneer.
Auction items included designer bags by Kate Spade, Dooney & Bourke, Coach, and Betsey Johnson; artisan-made bags; totes, purses, evening bags, backpacks, briefcases, and many unique items.
Items were donated by local stores and businesses, designers, artists, and community members.