Knoxville Area Urban League prepares students for new year at 22nd annual Shoes for School
Approximately 6,500 people attended the Knoxville’s Area Urban League’s 22nd annual Shoes for School, which provides new shoes and school supplies for children and connects families with valuable community resources. A total of 1,750 pairs of shoes were distributed to students, and the organization estimates that more than 4,000 children stocked up on school supplies.
The annual celebration marks the start of the new school year; Knox County students return to classrooms on Thursday, Aug. 8. Shoes for School was supported by presenting sponsor Tennessee Valley Authority for the event, which was held inside the Jacob Building at Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center to escape the August heat after years at Caswell Park.
“Every year, we aim to empower more of our community at this event,” said Dr. Charles F. Lomax Jr., president and CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League. “In addition to providing much-needed items to our youth, we supported students’ families with an employment fair, health resources and agency connections. Back-to-school time is an opportunity for us all to have a fresh start and set our sights on goals for the year ahead.”
Nearly 100 booths representing businesses, nonprofits, government entities and other organizations distributed free school supplies and services. Attendees also enjoyed games, inflatables 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.
“Shoes for School is an excellent introduction to KAUL for those who need assistance but aren’t sure where to start,” Lomax said. “Our initiatives – Education, Entrepreneurship, Health, Housing, Justice and Jobs – meet people where they are and believe in where they can go.”
KAUL is a non-profit, non-partisan coalition, serving a diverse client base of all ages in Knox, Blount and Anderson counties.
