The Salvation Army of Central Indiana prepared more than 300 children for another successful school year with a Back-to-School event at the Fountain Square Corps Community Center. Students and their families came to The Salvation Army Fountain Square to pick out a free backpack and “shop” for school supplies like paper, notebooks, folders, pencils, crayons, markers and much more. A special thank you to Complete Office Supply for donating thousands of dollars’ worth of school supplies for Central Indiana families.
“Providing backpacks and school supplies may seem simple, but for many families, it's a huge relief,” said Major Malinda O’Neil, Central Indiana Area Commander. “It’s more than just notebooks and pencils; the school supplies will give a child the confidence to walk into school ready to learn and giving parents one less worry during a difficult time." 
In addition, these pre-registered students received a new pair of shoes and socks. The Salvation Army partners with Shoe Carnival each year to bring in hundreds of shoes in a variety of sizes and designs. Students were fitted for the correct size and picked out their favorite shoe design.
The shoe and school supplies giveaway program is made possible by a long-time donor Laura Lewis. She passed away in 2023, but her legacy still lives on through this event. Lewis, who was orphaned as a young child and sometimes had no: shoes, saw this as a way to give back to Central Indiana kids.
“We are so grateful to continue the spirit of Laura Lewis and support families in Central Indiana before they begin the school year,” said Major O’Neil. “She cared so much for the children in the area and wanted them to be ready when the new school year arrives. Making sure these kids are prepared is what Mrs. Lewis intended when this event began more than 30 years ago.”
"This event gives them [my children] confidence," said parent Marlisa Powell. "They walk into school with their heads held high. They have new clothes, new shoes. They don't have to ask anyone for nothing. My kids are happy. If my kids are happy, I'm happy."
 
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