Utica, New York — August 5, 2026 — With the first day of school quickly approaching, 372 local children are already registered to receive new shoes—and more families are signing up every day.
For many children, a new pair of sneakers is about far more than appearance. It means walking into school with dignity, joining classmates at recess, participating in gym class, and stepping into the year with confidence. This urgent community effort is focused on making sure every child starts school feeling prepared, included, and ready to learn.
Community members can help immediately by purchasing new sneakers from the Amazon Wish List or by making a monetary donation to the Neighborhood Center to support families still waiting for assistance.
“The number of children already registered shows how real the need is for families in our community,” said Jennifer Benn, Director of Development and Public Relations of Neighborhood Center. “But it also shows what is possible when neighbors come together, which our area does very well. Every pair of shoes donated helps a child begin the school year with comfort, confidence, and the reminder that their community is behind them.”
The campaign comes at a critical moment, as back-to-school costs increase for local families. A simple pair of new sneakers can remove one barrier for a child—and give parents peace of mind as they prepare for the year ahead.
How to help: Purchase new sneakers from the Amazon Wish List here or contact Neighborhood Center to make a monetary donation at: https://neighborhoodctr.org
About The Neighborhood Center, Inc. Founded in 1905, The Neighborhood Center, Inc. enriches the lives of individuals and families through cooperative opportunities, resources, and advocacy which embrace diversity, promote empowerment, and foster responsible citizenship. The organization has maintained a sustained pattern of activities benefiting children, families, and the community for over a century. For more information, visit www.neighborhoodctr.org or follow on social media @neighborhoodct1, Instagram @theneighborhoodcenter, or Facebook.
