Josiah and R.J. with their new shoes from Payless. (Photo submitted)
By Joel Williams
Club Intern
WESTFIELD – Children from the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield were able to go to Payless ShoeSource to get new shoes as a part of the organization’s Payless Gives™ Shoes 4 Kids campaign. Each participating child was given a certificate equivalent to $20 to spend at the store.
Upon entering, the kids had their right foot measured and their shoe size put on a sticker which they wore around the store. Kids were able to pick up new shoes, socks, and accessories, and, in some cases, gifts for their family members.
“I got some new shoes and some earrings for my grandma,” said RJ, 12.
Josiah, 13, was able to get sandals in her favorite shade of green, just in time for summer. “I’m really thankful, because it’s almost summer and I needed new sandals. Oh, and I helped R.J. pick out new shoes because he wasn’t sure which ones he wanted, but I have three brothers so I knew what looked good.”
“They’re such sweet kids. My son went to the Boys and Girls Club. It was great because I always knew where he was and that he was safe. I’m glad Payless does this. It’s great. It’s a lot of fun,” said one Payless associate.
This is the sixth year of Payless’s Shoes 4 Kids program. Each year, Payless Corporation partners with nonprofit organizations like the Boys and Girls Club to give away more than 1.5 million dollars in shoes to children in need.
For more information about events and programs taking place at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield, or to find out how to get your child involved, call Kellie Brown at 413.562.2301 or visit www.bgcwestfield.org
