August 5, 2017
More than 1,200 children received new tennis shoes and school supplies on Saturday, Aug. 5, thanks to the 15th annual “Shoes for School” event presented by the Knoxville Area Urban League, U.S. Cellular and East TN Children’s Hospital.
The first day of school for Knox County is Monday, Aug. 7. The event at Caswell Park is timed to coincide with the start of the new academic year, sending children into the classroom with new shoes and an assortment of school supplies.
“The small gesture of a new pair of shoes for one student has a big impact because that child can now start off the school year with so much more confidence,” said Phyllis Y. Nichols, president and CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League. “This event means that happens more than 1,200 times to more than 1,200 children in one day. This truly is one of the most joyful and exciting days of the year for the Knoxville Area Urban League staff and volunteers.”
The Knoxville Area Urban League, U.S. Cellular and other sponsors hosted a festive atmosphere with food, games and inflatables provided by booth sponsors representing area businesses, nonprofit organizations, church groups and others. The event is a community effort that families and volunteers eagerly anticipate each year. Children receiving shoes at the event complete a pre-registration process with participating agencies, and school supplies are available to all children.
“We greatly appreciate our staff and sponsors who give time and donations to make this event successful and meaningful for the schoolchildren in our community,” Nichols said.
