Knoxville Area Urban League Prepares 3,300 Students For New School Year
August 8, 2026, 4:28 p.m.

Covenant Health Park was the scene of an attendance of 8,500 people attending KAUL's 24th annual Shoes for School event. Image by KAUL

KNOXVILLE - Approximately 8,500 people attended the Knoxville Area Urban League’s 24th annual Shoes for School, which provides new shoes and school supplies for children and connects families with community resources. During the event, the organization distributed 1,800 pairs of shoes, more than 2,500 backpacks and school supplies to more than 3,300 children.

The annual back-to-school event, held at Covenant Health Park, helps prepare children for the new school year as Knox County Schools students return to the classroom on Aug. 10. Shoes for School was made possible through the support of co-presenting sponsors SouthEast Bank and Altar'd State, along with media sponsor WBIR Channel 10.

The Francisco family pose with mascot Smokie Joe after picking up new shoes before the school year starts Aug. 10. The Knoxville Area Urban League distributed more than 3,000 pairs of shoes and school supplies at the annual event held Aug. 8 at Covenant Health Park. Image by KAUL

“This year we surpassed previous records for the number of shoes distributed to students," said Dr. Laurie Shanderson, president and CEO of the Knoxville Area Urban League. "We’re proud to provide shoes, backpacks, school supplies and valuable community resources to families. This event is about removing financial barriers so students can begin the school year ready to succeed."

Nearly 67 booths representing businesses, nonprofits, government entities and other organizations distributed free school supplies and services. Attendees also enjoyed games, free haircuts, manicures and music.

The Master Academy of Barbering gives free haircuts to students at the Shoes for School event hosted Aug. 8 by the Knoxville Area Urban League at Covenant Health Park. Image by KAUL

The impact of Shoes for School goes beyond back-to-school basics. When students are prepared for school, they have a sense of stability, and their self-esteem is boosted. Confidence in the classroom helps children relate to their peers, encourages them to speak up, and allows them to perform their best. The Knoxville Area Urban League believes that Shoes for School, added to its support services offered year-round, equals greater opportunities later in life.

“We all remember walking into school on the first day; it’s both exciting and intimidating,” Shanderson said. “Shoes for School helps students start the year with confidence and optimism, knowing they have the tools they need to succeed.”

The Knoxville Area Urban League advances education, entrepreneurship, health, housing, jobs and justice. The organization is a non-profit, non-partisan, interracial coalition, serving a diverse client base in Knox, Blount and Anderson counties.