The Topeka South Rotary Club hosted students from Scott
Magnet, Highland Park Central Elementary and Ross Elementary as part of their
Sole Mates Project. About 30 students in kindergarten through fourth grade
headed to Payless Shoesource on Wednesday, January 22nd, meeting up with Topeka South Rotary Club members to select a
new pair of school shoes and package of socks.
Rotary volunteer Jamie Stafford explained that the children
were each paired with a Rotary volunteer who helped them select their new
footwear. The Sole Mates project has taken place once a month for about three
years, providing shoes for approximately 30 kids each month. So far this school
year, around 200 kids have received new school shoes. The program is possible
through Rotary donations and a Rotary International grant. “We love doing it,”
Stafford added.
The kids were clearly delighted with- and proud of- their
stylish new footwear!