Knoxville Area Urban League prepares 3,300 students for new school year with 24th annual Shoes for School

Approximately 8,500 people attended the Knoxville’s Area Urban League’s 24th annual Shoes for School, which provides new shoes and school supplies for children and connects families with community resources. During the event, the organization distributed 1,800 pairs of shoes, more than 2,500 backpacks and school supplies to more than 3,300 children.

The annual back-to-school event, held at Covenant Health Park, helps prepare children for the new school year as Knox County Schools students return to the classroom on Aug. 10. Shoes for School was made possible through the support of co-presenting sponsors SouthEast Bank and Altar’d State, along with media sponsor WBIR Channel 10.

“This year we surpassed previous records for the number of shoes distributed to students,” said Dr. Laurie Shanderson, president and CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League. “We’re proud to provide shoes, backpacks, school supplies and valuable community resources to families. This event is about removing financial barriers so students can begin the school year ready to succeed.”

Nearly 67 booths representing businesses, nonprofits, government entities and other organizations distributed free school supplies and services. Attendees also enjoyed games, free haircuts, manicures and music.

The impact of Shoes for School goes beyond back-to-school basics. When students are prepared for school, they have a sense of stability, and their self-esteem is boosted. Confidence in the classroom helps children relate to their peers, encourages them to speak up and allows them to perform their best. The Knoxville Area Urban League believes that Shoes for School, added to its support services offered year-round, equals greater opportunities later in life.

“We all remember walking into school on the first day, it’s both exciting and intimidating,” Shanderson said. “Shoes for School helps students start the year with confidence and optimism, knowing they have the tools they need to succeed.”

The Knoxville Area Urban League advances education, entrepreneurship, health, housing, jobs and justice. The organization is a non-profit, non-partisan, interracial coalition, serving a diverse client base in Knox, Blount and Anderson counties.

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.