Indiana Credit Unions Provide 250 Children with New School Shoes

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 3, 2016) There were 250 children who received new shoes for the coming school year as a result of the combined effort of Indiana"s credit unions, Samaritan"s Feet International and the Indianapolis Urban League (IUL). The shoes were distributed at the Urban League"s Back to School Block Party on July 23. Credit unions across Indiana contributed shoes and monetary donations to Samaritan"s Feet so that children who need them could have a new pair of shoes. "Indiana credit unions have partnered with Samaritan"s Feet since 2010 to provide more than 8,000 pairs of shoes to those who need them most," said Indiana Credit Union League President John McKenzie. "Our annual convention was a collection point for six consecutive years, in addition to efforts at credit unions statewide. Credit union representatives have also volunteered at all of the shoe distributions, personally delivering shoes to the recipients." The recipients at the block party waited in line with their parents, and each had their feet washed by a volunteer who put new socks and shoes on them. During the foot washing, volunteers took time to give a message of hope and inspiration to each student. Nearly 2,500 people attended the block party where they received free backpacks and school supplies, health screenings, and food. They also enjoyed NASCAR"s Drive for Diversity Community Expo and activities provided by the Indiana Pacers, IMPD and IFD and others. In addition to area residents of all ages who came out to be part of the festive atmosphere, U.S. Congressman Andre Carson attended the event along with State Representatives, Greg Porter, Robin Shackleford, Cherrish Pryor, Vanessa Summers, and State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Glenda Ritz. "The IUL Back-to-School Block Party was a huge success." said Indianapolis Urban League President/CEO Anthony Mason. "We were able to provide hundreds of children and families with shoes, school supplies, food and health screenings thanks to partnerships and support from Samaritan"s Feet, the Indiana Credit Union League, Marion County Public Health Department, HealthNet, Eskenazi Health, AFC Growth Fund, Geico, McDonalds, Rev Racing, NASCAR and Walmart.