Hundreds of children from East Toledo and beyond will receive new shoes to kick off the school year at Helping Hands of St. Louis’ annual Shoe Fest on Saturday.
The 11th annual event will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at Helping Hands of St. Louis, 443 Sixth St. Children who attend the event will have their feet washed and then will be fitted for new shoes.
The custom of washing the children’s feet is meant to mimic how Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, said Theresa Bugelholl, longtime volunteer and founder of the Shoe Fest.
The event will be first come, first served, and while Helping Hands focuses on serving East Toledo families, no child will be turned away if their shoe size is in stock. There will also be face painting, balloons, and games to keep children occupied as they wait their turn, Ms. Bugelholl said.
“The kids that come down here, a lot of them do get the hand-me-downs, and to get a brand-new pair of shoes that they like that fit their feet, and then to do it in a joyous atmosphere. … It’s a way to start their outlook toward school on the right foot,” said Sue Shrewsbery, director of Helping Hands of St. Louis.