Lace Up for Kids kicks off 37th year of Giving Back

ZANESVILLE, Ohio — Lace Up for Kids has kicked off, and it’s the perfect time to swing by Eastside Ministries or even a local Wendy’s to give back.

The goal of Lace Up for Kids is to provide a brand-new pair of sneakers to children in need. A variety is already on display, many featuring popular characters like Paw Patrol and Disney princesses. The initiative leads into the Back-to-School Extravaganza later this year.

“We’re so excited to be partnering with Wendy’s again. Next week are our applications, July 7th through July 10th, so any families that have children in need of a brand-new pair of tennis shoes…they can come and apply next week,” Eastside Community Ministry Executive Director Jamie Trout said.

With rising costs, Eastside is calling on the community to do their part. Just a few years ago, the average pair of shoes cost the ministry around five dollars. Now that number has jumped to nearly 30 dollars. That’s why support from local donors is more important than ever. A simple stop at a Wendy’s in Zanesville is one way to make a difference.

“We’re really excited. This year, again, we’re going to donate a dollar in the month of July for every kid’s meal we sell in any of the restaurants in the Zanesville area,” Wendy’s Franchisee Tim Thompson said. “This has been a 37-year partnership, which is very unusual but very good. It was started by Bob Goodrich, who used to own a Wendy’s in Zanesville, he was huge on giving back to the community, so we’re very honored to keep this tradition going,” Thompson said.

Monetary donations to help purchase shoes are also welcome and can be sent directly to ECM. Distribution day will take place August 5th at Colony Square Mall by appointment only.