Hundreds of Local Children Receive New Shoes for Back to School

Hundreds of children across Winnebago County are heading back to school with something new in their step.

The Salvation Army of Winnebago County recently hosted a New Year, New Shoes event, providing local children with brand-new shoes, socks and school supplies to help them start the school year feeling prepared and confident.

Through the generosity of donors and community partners, families gathered for a day centered on more than back-to-school necessities. They also had the opportunity to enjoy activities designed to make the day feel like a celebration.

SKECHERS helped make the program possible by coordinating 500 shoe vouchers, helping The Salvation Army put new shoes into the hands of children throughout the community.

For families facing financial challenges, back-to-school expenses can add up quickly. Shoes, clothing and classroom supplies are necessities, but purchasing everything a child needs at once can put additional pressure on an already-tight household budget. New Year, New Shoes helps ease some of that burden while giving children the opportunity to begin a new school year feeling ready to learn.

The Rockford Park District hosted this year’s event, providing a welcoming space for children and families to gather. Members of the Rockford Police Department and Rockford Fire Department also stopped by to meet families and take part in the day.

Bee Giggles Entertainment added to the celebration with balloon animals, face painting and activities for the children.

The event was made possible through the support of donors, partners and volunteers who continue to invest in children and families throughout Winnebago County.

At The Salvation Army, we know a new pair of shoes can represent much more than something to wear on the first day of school. For a child, it can mean confidence and dignity. For a parent, it can mean one less expense to worry about. And for a community, it is another opportunity to come together and make sure local children have what they need to succeed.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s New Year, New Shoes event possible and helped hundreds of children take their next steps into the school year with confidence.