Stepping Up for Marion County's Children: Cents for Shoes Program Provides Vital Support

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, more than 500 school-age children in Marion County, Ohio, received brand-new shoes at the start of the academic year, thanks to the generosity of local residents and the tireless efforts of the Cents for Shoes program. This long-running initiative has been a beacon of hope for families in need, ensuring that every child can start the school year on the right foot, both literally and figuratively.

Empowering Families, One Pair of Shoes at a Time

Providing Shoes for Those in Need

For the past 23 years, the Cents for Shoes program has been a lifeline for Marion County children aged 3 to 18 whose families qualify for assistance through the local Job & Family Services department. Over the course of its existence, the program has provided more than 11,100 pairs of shoes to these children, making a tangible difference in their lives.The process is simple yet impactful. Parents or guardians register their children for the program, and each child's feet are carefully measured to ensure a proper fit. Armed with a $50 voucher from Shoe Sensation, a local retailer, families can then select the perfect pair of shoes for their child, with the program covering the cost up to the voucher amount.

A Community Effort

The success of the Cents for Shoes program is a testament to the generosity and compassion of the Marion County community. Donations from concerned citizens, churches, foundations, and organizations have all contributed to the program's ability to serve the needs of local families."It's heartwarming to receive donations from so many caring individuals and organizations," said Robin Rick, the chairperson of Cents for Shoes. "Every penny counts, and we are grateful for the support of our community."

A Rewarding Experience for All

The partnership between Cents for Shoes and Shoe Sensation has been a crucial component of the program's success. The staff at Shoe Sensation have gone above and beyond to ensure that the shopping experience for families is a pleasant one, opening their doors two hours early and adding extra staff to accommodate the influx of children and parents."It is a pleasure to help these young families get their children ready for school," said Frank Sabo, the market sales director for Shoe Sensation. "It is very rewarding to see the children's smiling faces when they leave with their new shoes."

Preparing for the Future

As the Cents for Shoes program looks ahead to the next school year, the organizers are already in the midst of the fundraising process. They understand that the number of children they can serve is directly tied to the amount of funds they have available."We're currently in the fundraising process for our next school year," Rick explained. "Every penny donated is used to buy shoes. Our committee is all volunteer, and the number of children we are able to serve is determined by the amount in our bank account."To support the Cents for Shoes program, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, individuals can make checks payable to Cents for Shoes and mail them to 249 E. Center St. Marion, OH 43302.The Cents for Shoes program is a shining example of how a community can come together to make a tangible difference in the lives of its children. By providing new shoes to those in need, the program not only ensures that these children can start the school year with confidence and comfort but also fosters a sense of belonging and support that can have a lasting impact on their academic and personal success.