LA CROSSE, WI (WXOW)—The Salvation Army is expecting to serve more children than ever during this years Steppin' Back to School Program; last year they served 300 kids, this year they're expecting to serve 350.
Steppin' Back to School provides low income school aged children with a new shirt, shoes and pair of jeans for the new school year.
Registration began on Friday and continues Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday and Tuesday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army, 223 N. 8th Street in La Crosse.
Director of Public Relations at the Salvation Army Julie Nelson said the purpose of the program is to help all kids go back to school feeling confident and special.
"Image is so important to children," Nelson said. "There's a lot of peer pressure and kids notice. Everyone comes back to school that first day wearing a new outfit and people comment on it. If you come from a family that just can't afford that sort of thing then you feel left out."
Families applying for assistance need to bring proof of residency in La Crosse County, household income and verification of each school-aged child in the family.
Sponsor families are also needed. If you are interested in buying a new outfit for a child or entire family contact Jeff Hoch at 608-782-6126 or jeff_hoch@usc.salvationarmy.org. Donations should be received by the Salvation Army by Thursday, August 18.
Clothing will be distributed on Friday, August 24.
For more information on Steppin' Back to School click here.
