More volunteers needed for Soles for Christ
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- An anticipated annual event that provides kids with new shoes is in need of more volunteers.
Soles for Christ, sponsored by the AFL-CIO, will hold its annual shoe distribution from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both Monday, Aug. 11, and Tuesday, Aug. 12.
The annual Soles for Christ event provides shoes for an average of 1,100 students each year to help start the school year, according to executive director Nichi Seckinger.
"Right now we have about 70 volunteers signed up," Seckinger said, "And we usually have between 110 and 130."
Seckinger said she realizes it is summer and many people are traveling, but said the good news is, the AFL-CIO has added tools to make it easier for volunteers, givers and clients.
"We're going to a digital format for entering everyone this year," Seckinger said. "So, we are hoping that will speed up the process, since there won't be as much paperwork to process."
Givers can also go online and have shoes shipped directly to the AFL-CIO through Amazon. That link can be found on the AFL-CIO website.
Seckinger said that although she does encourage people to shop locally where possible, those who need the convenience of online ordering and delivery can easily utilize the Amazon shipping process.
There are already hundreds of boxes of shoes in all size ranges at the AFL-CIO building on 6th Street in St. Joseph; however, staff at AFL-CIO said the group is always needing as many donations as possible for this event, since shoes are provided to a wide range of age groups.
Volunteers are needed to coordinate children and parents when they arrive, to help get shoe sizes and to help students try on the shoes. The volunteers can help the large two-day event go smoothly and help ensure each child gets the shoes that are right for them.
Seckinger said the blessing of this event comes from seeing the excitement of the children when they find the right shoes for them.
"It's so fun when the little ones run around in their new shoes," Seckinger said. "Most of the time, they ask their parents if they can wear their shoes home, instead of waiting for the first day of school."
The event will be held at the Scottish Rite building, located at 515 N. 6th St.
Parents must bring all children who need shoes to the distribution. Only one adult is allowed at the fitting station; other adults can wait in the exit area.
Children going to preschool through 12th grade are invited.
More information, including ways to donate and volunteer, can be found at helpmenow.org/souls-for-christ, or by calling (816) 364-1131.
