Lace Up Helps Over 900 Area Children

ZANESVILLE, OH – Secrest Auditorium was a buzz Tuesday as volunteers helped kids get ready for the upcoming school year.

The 36th annual Lace Up for Kids event helped over 900 area children start the school year off on the right foot.

Sally Goins, a Volunteer with Eastside Community Ministry, said the kids received new socks and shoes, clothes and even a haircut for some. She said this event wouldn’t have been possible without the support from the community.

“From numerous people in the community who donate time, money and shoes,” Goins said. “And lots of volunteers, it takes a tremendous number of volunteers to do it.”

The back to school extravaganza also featured some activities so the kids could make new friends. Goins said the best part of this event is to see the children’s emotions change as the day goes on.

“It’s just real rewarding to see them come in kind of dragging and ‘oh, back to school.’ and then going out, ‘Oh! I’ve got new shoes!’” Goins said. “It’s just, I mean heartwarming is kind of a trite phrase, but it is; it makes your heart feel good.”

If you are interested in signing up to volunteer at next year’s Lace Up for Kids event, you can head to Eastside Community Ministry’s website.