Salvation Army seeks shoes for school-aged children

Shopping bags full of back-to-school clothing and accessories are an annual tradition for many children in August.

But many families can’t even afford shoes for their children. So, the Salvation Army is stepping in to help. Last year, the nonprofit organization provided 40 pairs of shoes to school-aged children.

“We’re taking applications from people in the community that need shoes,” said Aaron Smith, director of community relations at the Lawrence Salvation Army. “These would be kids that are from kindergarten through sixth grade, and they may not have the means.”

Applicants are required to provide a proof of income, a Social Security card, proof of address and a recent report card for each child.

“This is for kids that probably don’t have the Playstations, and they probably don’t have the fancy cars dropping them off. But a new pair of shoes could really do a lot for them in giving them some dignity as they go to school this fall,” Smith said.

The Salvation Army hopes to collect enough financial donations to purchase 75 pairs of shoes for area children.

“If we get enough financial donations, we’ll even bump that up a little bit,” Smith said. “We found out that no one else in town is helping out with this specific need, and that’s one of the things the Salvation Army likes to do – just be able to step up and fill the need when they feel like it’s something that’ll really make a difference.”

Those interested in donating are encouraged to drop off or mail financial donations to the Lawrence Salvation Army, 946 N.H.