All news
Shoes for School
Published: 8/31/2009 10:30:00 AM
Having a new pair of shoes and new school supplies for the first day of school may not seem like a big deal to many of us. For far too many children, however, they are luxuries their families simply can’t afford.
Having a new pair of shoes and new school supplies for the first day of school may not seem like a big deal to many of us. For far too many children, however, they are luxuries their families simply can’t afford.
In today’s economy, the number of families struggling to provide basic necessities is larger than ever.
Recently, the Knoxville Area Urban League hosted its Sixth Annual Shoes for School event at the beautifully renovated Caswell Park in East Knoxville. The carnival-like celebration included nearly 1,000 children, games, food, lots of new school supplies, and, most importantly, new shoes.
Children beamed as they opened the boxes that contained shoes ordered especially for them.
The Urban League says that the celebration helps children start the school year “on the right foot,” and it certainly seems to do just that.
I am pleased to say that KCDC’s Community Involvement Committee took part in this special day. Volunteers included Michael Hodges, Nicholas Hodges, Tammy Kitts, Mary Castleberry, Ashley Ogle, Rhonda Harris, Jennifer Jamison, Ken Weaver and Tina Reed.
Alongside 25 other booth sponsors, our Community Involvement Committee members stood in the scorching heat to provide fun, games and school supplies to area children who can certainly use them. I’m proud of our employees who gave up their Saturday morning to serve others.
We were happy for this opportunity to provide a bright spot for children who sorely needed it, and to help them start the school year happy, confident and prepared.
KCDC’s mission is to improve and transform neighborhoods and communities by providing quality affordable housing, advancing development initiatives and fostering self-sufficiency. For more information, call 865-403-1100 or visit http://www.kcdc.org.