For many children, back-to-school shopping means picking out a first-day outfit, a new pair of shoes or school supplies they’ve been looking forward to getting.
But for some local families, those purchases can be difficult to afford.
That’s why KIRO 7 Cares and The Salvation Army teamed up once again to help children across Western Washington get ready for the school year, giving them a chance to shop for clothes, shoes and school supplies with the help of KIRO 7 volunteers.
At a recent shopping event at Fred Meyer, children arrived with shopping lists in hand and were paired with volunteers from KIRO 7 News, including Nia Bliss, Nick Allard and Linzi Sheldon, who helped them find items and stay within budget.
For 8-year-old Eden, the trip offered an opportunity to choose her own back-to-school style as she prepares to enter third grade.
“My favorite thing about shopping is that I get to pick out whatever I want and not have to let my mom say, ‘No, next time,’” Eden said.
She proudly showed off some of the items she selected.
“I got jeans and a shirt and a notebook and some cool pencils,” she said.
The program also provides relief for parents facing rising costs this season.
Earl Zanders attended the event with his daughter, who is preparing to enter fourth grade. The family is participating for a second year.
“It’s a big help,” Zanders said. “Today’s economy, you know what I’m saying, it’s up there. The Salvation Army giving us this opportunity is a big help.”
According to The Salvation Army, the back-to-school shopping program has served local children for 35 years. KIRO 7 Cares has partnered with the organization on the fundraiser for the past four years.
Major Roy Wild with The Salvation Army said the impact goes beyond providing school clothes and supplies.
“It’s a big deal for kids to go to school,” Wild said. “It’s a scary thing to start school, and to be able to have some clothes that are brand new that they get to pick out and shop for helps their self esteem and prepares them.”
The fundraising campaign helps make the shopping trips possible. Organizers say every $150 donated provides a shopping experience for one child.
In previous years, community donations have helped between 800 and 900 children shop for back-to-school necessities.
“Just give us the support,” Zanders said. “Our kids are amazing. The kids at The Salvation Army are some amazing kids.”
For children like Eden, the experience is about more than new clothes or supplies.
“I’m gonna write a story in my notebook and do some math with it and draw pictures,” she said.
Organizers say the goal is to ensure local students can start the school year feeling prepared, confident and ready to learn.
There are additional shopping events scheduled through the end of the month, and donations will be accepted through Aug. 31.
For more information or to contribute, click here.
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