Knoxville Area Urban League’s Shoes for School to kick off school year
August 6, 2026, 5:29 p.m.

KNOXVILLE - On Saturday, Aug. 8, the Knoxville Area Urban League will host Shoes for School, an annual event now in its 24th year where thousands of students receive new shoes and school supplies. The event will be held from 9 a.m.-noon at Covenant Health Park, 500 E. Jackson Ave.

Knoxville Area Urban League President and CEO Dr. Laurie Shanderson will kick off the event with other community leaders and welcome attendees right before 9 a.m.

Children who will receive shoes were pre-registered. Shoes orders are at capacity, so pairs cannot be provided to those who walk up. Backpacks and other giveaways will be available to all children ages 5-12 while items last.

Shoes for School will celebrate the upcoming school year with games and music. Dozens of booth sponsors will participate, offering free haircuts, school supplies, assistance resources for families and more.