City officials announced that a non-profit organization, Kicks for Kids, LLC., will host an in-store sneaker event for children in need at The Mills at Jersey Gardens on July 26th.
“Due to a family’s financial hardships, there may not be funds to purchase new shoes, therefore children often wear hand-me-downs or shoes that may not fit well – both of which can be uncomfortable and contribute to foot issues,” said Mayor Bollwage. “I would like to thank Kicks for Kids for being a selfless organization, which addresses this issue and provides new sneakers to young people. Their efforts are helping our community gain access to resources that will support youth growth and development.”
The event, which is being held in the Nike Factory Outlet and in coordination with the County of Union, will provide two hundred and fifty (250) Elizabeth children the opportunity to choose a sneaker and style they like and be properly fitted with the help of a Nike sales member.
Officials say in addition to the giveaway, several activities will be set up in the mall’s parking lot, including bounce houses, water slides, music and performances by local groups as well as food and more.
All participants in the Kicks for Kids event will also have the opportunity to enroll in a variety of summer programs including STEM, Tech, Coding, summer and sports programs. These summer camps prepare students for college by promoting problem solving, critical thinking and teamwork skills at no cost.
Kicks for Kids, LLC., which was founded by CEO Beatrice Carter in 2015, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) youth service organization, which presents brand-new sneakers to disadvantaged children, who also participate in its educational programs (anti-bulling, tutorial, enrichment). Since its induction, they have provided over five hundred children with brand new shoes and have helped over two hundred families in New Jersey.
“Children, who wear ill-fitting or off-brand sneakers are often ignored, teased, bullied and even victimized in schools,” said Beatrice Carter, CEO and Founder. “These experiences can become the root cause for frustration, low self-esteem, depression, anger and violence that is often associated with disadvantaged children. So let us remember that we should never underestimate the power of help - even a little goes a long way!”
For more information about Kicks for Kids or to donate, please visit www.kicks-forkids.com.