At least 200 children will be wearing new shoes to school this fall for perhaps the first time thanks to a project being launched by the Kewanee Area United Way.
“As a parent, how does one choose shoes for school or the gas bill?” Said Linda Blair, KAUW executive director.
As KAUW began to contact various schools in the area, teachers and administrators were quick to share their stories and concerns from students wearing flip flops in the snow to children coming to school with their shoes taped together. For many nonprofits and businesses, it’s not unusual to see requests from teachers asking for help for their students. Nor is it unusual to get similar requests for footwear from parents.
In light of that need, the KAUW is taking on a multi-phase project called Shoes For Kids 2024. The project will raise funds to provide shoes for kids in both school districts. In the initial phase, shoes will be provided for Pre-K through third grade in Kewanee School District and also at Head Start and Wethersfield.
In the coming weeks, the community will be seeing advertisements, posts and flyers about the campaign. Some people could be contacted in person about donating to the cause.
During this year, KAUW will provide 200 pairs of shoes for kids at or below 100% of the FPL. That won’t eliminate the need, Blair said, and it won’t even meet the need but it will make a dent in it. On average 75% of the kids attending the Kewanee Public School System qualify for free or reduced lunches. That doesn’t mean all of those children need shoes but a higher than normal percentage will need help to get shoes.
The KAUW is thanking Breedlove’s Sporting Goods for working with them to buy shoes at cost and to 360SA, who is also working with the agency to collect the data and to help finalize details on shoe delivery.
For more information or questions, or to donate or volunteer to help with the project, contact KAUW at kewaneeareaunitedway@kewanee.com.
