Kent County Nonprofit Providing Free Shoes to Over 4,000 Kids Going Into New School Year

For many families in West Michigan back to school is a stressful season, because it means spending lots of money they may not have to ensure their kids are ready for their school year. Between supplies and new clothes- it can get expensive quickly. That's why as the school year approaches, a Kent County nonprofit is stepping up to ease the financial burden for parents by providing new shoes for their children. The annual S.H.O.E.S. program, hosted by In The Image, is back this year, offering brand-new athletic shoes to elementary students at DeVos Place starting Tuesday.

In The Image aims to supply over 4,100 children with shoes this year, ensuring that they start the school year on the right foot. In addition to the shoes, the organization will also offer free vision screenings and connect families with local resources to help them prepare for the upcoming academic year. The program is free for families who reside in Kent County and have a child enrolled in kindergarten through 5th grade.

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Volunteers will be stationed near the venue’s Grand Gallery, conveniently located by the government center parking ramp on Monroe Avenue.

Since its launch in 1996, the S.H.O.E.S. program has distributed more than 100,000 pairs of shoes to children in the Grand Rapids area, helping to ensure that every child can play, learn, and grow confidently.

The event runs through Saturday, August 3, with limited hours each day, so make sure you check these times before you head out:

• Tuesday, July 30: 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, July 31: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, August 1: 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Friday, August 2: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Saturday, August 3: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Community members who wish to support the program can contribute by donating money or volunteering their time. If you want to find out more information about how you can help, you can visit their website. Speaking of free things you can enjoy here in West Michigan...