Shoe Bank plans open house

LOCK HAVEN — There’s an easy, fun way to make a positive difference for kids. All you need to do is give a little time each month, or whenever you can.

It’s really pretty simple. Kids need shoes, and eligible kids and teens can get a free new pair at the Lock Haven Area Shoe Bank.

The Shoe Bank is an all-volunteer program, and new volunteers are always welcome to get in on the fun of matching up new shoes with little feet.

Anyone interested in finding out more is cordially invited to visit the Shoe Bank, which is inside Covenant United Methodist Church, 44 W. Main St., Lock Haven, on Thursday, Sept. 16 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. There is no obligation, just a chance to drop by and say hello. There will be a temperature check, and masks are required.

The evening will include a peek inside the Shoe Bank, where you can talk with current volunteers and see all the colorful shoes on their shelves.

The Shoe Bank is generally open the third Saturday of the month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., by appointment. It gives kids and teens, from wee ones up to age 18, a free new pair of school-worthy shoes or sneakers, as well as a pair of new socks and at least one book to take home. Covid-19 protocols are followed, including temperature-taking and masks.

Volunteers may choose what they would like to do. On Shoe Bank day, they may register the families who come for shoes, or fit shoes to feet, or be a general helper. Help is also welcome on Shoe Bank set-up days, usually held every Thursday afternoon, when new shoes, socks and books are processed and placed on shelves.

Other volunteer opportunities include getting the word out to the public, finding grants, reaching out to Lock Haven University students, visiting local service clubs, representing the Shoe Bank at special events.

The Shoe Bank will give free new shoes to eligible kids and teens on Saturday, Sept. 18. For an appointment, call or text Diahann at 814-571-5324, Monday-Friday 7-9 pm.

To find out more about the Shoe Bank, please drop by the open house, or email lhasb@outlook.com.