May. 20, 2026
Families receiving support through local nonprofits can register their children, age 5-12, now through May 31 to receive a free pair of shoes at the Knoxville Area Urban League’s Shoes for School. The order form and other event information are available at thekaul.org/.
Shoes for School is celebrating 24 years of helping children build confidence and succeed in the classroom. The event will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, at Covenant Health Park from 9 a.m.-noon.
“We are always excited for this event and what it means for the children in our community,” said Dr. Laurie Shanderson, president and CEO of KAUL. “This event brings our community together to meet a real need for local families.” “In addition to receiving shoes, families can pick up school supplies, connect with community organizations and support small businesses through onsite vendor booths.”
Not everyone is eligible to receive shoes, and families who receive pairs must attend the event with the registered child for pickup. These requirements ensure low-income and disadvantaged families receive much-needed support, especially amid rising back-to-school costs. The various nonprofits establish eligibility through the order form
Booth registration for Shoes for School also is open now. Companies, civic and nonprofit organizations, church groups and others are encouraged to register. Once accepted, the registered participants will receive a list of recommended supplies to distribute and logistical details from the Knoxville Area Urban League (KAUL). Sponsors and volunteers also are being recruited now.
All applications are available at thekaul.org/, and individuals can call KAUL with questions at 865-524-5511.
The shoes for the event are supplied by Shoe Station at a generous discount, allowing KAUL to purchase and distribute them for free. The event’s success relies on collaboration with multiple East Tennessee agencies, KAUL members and supporters.
About the Knoxville Area Urban League
Since 1968, the Knoxville Area Urban League has assisted disadvantaged people attain social and economic stability and self-sufficiency through direct services and advocacy. The League works to provide a skilled and diverse workforce; to increase homeownership; to support economic and small business development, and to enhance education efforts for our youth. The Knoxville Area Urban League is a United Way partner agency and affiliate of the National Urban League. The League’s work and results are evident in the lives of the over 8,000 people it impacts each year. For more information, call 865-524-5511 or visit thekaul.org.
Bailey Ly
