After three months of renovations, the Walmart Supercenter in Hometown celebrated its grand reopening with a program and ribbon cutting.

The Friday morning event brought together store employees, school students and community members to mark the remodel of the 18-year-old store.

“This event is more than just a ribbon cutting,” said Samantha Somma, store manager. “It is a celebration of progress, partnership and power of the community.”

The revitalized store features upgraded departments and expanded grocery selections, along with refreshed home goods, electronics and fashion items.

“Every change was made with you in mind,” Somma said.

She noted that the store at 35 Plaza Drive in the village of Hometown, which remained open for the remodel, is more than just a place to shop.

“It’s a community hub, a place where families gather, neighbors connect and opportunities grow,” Somma said. “Our goal is to be a positive force in Tamaqua, creating jobs, supporting local initiatives and giving back to the community that gives so much to us.”

Adam Kerstetter, market manager, commended employees.

“It’s an incredible honor to stand here with you today to celebrate the grand reopening of our Walmart store in Tamaqua,” he said. “This day represents not only a renovation of a building but a renewal of our commitment to our customers, our associates and our community.”

Ebony Morris, coach of the food and consumables departments, announced a number of grant recipients.

“As part of today’s celebration, I’m honored to highlight one of the most beautiful parts of our grand reopening,” she said. “Our commitment to giving back to the community that gives so much to us.”

Store officials presented $7,000 in Walmart Spark Good grants to nonprofit organizations including $1,000 each to Safer Streets for Tamaqua’s Little Feet; St. Jerome Regional School’s after school program; Geisinger Health; Penn Kidder Ministerium; Bridge 127; and Make A Wish-Schuylkill County. Grants of $500 were given to We Agape You and Miss Greater Hazleton Scholarship Association.

Store officials thanked associates and the community, and recognized those who had been with the store since its opening almost 20 years ago.

The event also featured a fashion show with associates showcasing outfits from the store’s revamped men’s and women’s clothing departments.

The Marian Catholic High School Band performed the national anthem, and the Panther Valley High School’s JROTC provided a color guard.

The grand reopening, organized by sales associate Sharon Stokes, also featured music and free product samples.

It ended with a Walmart cheer performed by associates with assistance from Marian cheerleaders