Thursday was a day full of joy at Eastern Elementary School.

As students and parents came to visit with the staff and meet the teachers, Eastern’s multipurpose building was abuzz with another venture.

Stylists from Capelli Salon, Bardot and Salt Beauty and Wellness, as well as representatives from Vidant Beaufort Hospital, among others, pitched in to host a free haircuts event for families in need.

This is the third year that multiple partners came together for the event, which was facilitated by Bright Futures Beaufort County, an organization dedicated to meeting the needs of students.

Stylists worked in two shifts: noon to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Families could also choose from free school supplies, provided by Bardot.

“It’s been great,” Salt stylist Elizabeth Harris said. “It’s nice to be a role model for them.”

Harris said there had been a steady stream of students coming in for a haircut during her afternoon shift.

Eulia Moore was one of those who brought her children to have free haircuts. She said her children were excited for the event, and she was grateful the school hosted it again this year.

“It kind of helped me out a little bit,” Moore said.

She said the haircut will also give a little boost to her son Malachi’s confidence while starting school. Malachi starts kindergarten at Eastern Elementary on Monday, and he requested a mohawk style.

Cristal Barnhill, a representative from Maxim Healthcare, said her children are grown now, but she remembers the expense of getting a child ready for the first day of school.

Barnhill said she has seen similar haircut events, but there is always a cost associated with it.

“I think it’s a good idea,” she said. “It makes kids feel good.”

Barnhill said she also thinks a lot of the stylists who were willing to take time to help out.

“I think it’s good that they’re dedicating their time,” she said. “They’re awesome for doing that.”

Having met their teachers, selected a few extra supplies and now rocking a fresh haircut, these students are ready to go back to school. Beaufort County Schools starts the new year Monday.