A supportive community is a tremendous blessing for a school district. In Woodford County Public Schools, we are grateful to be positively impacted by the dedicated, compassionate, community members of Woodford County. One consistent source of support for our students has been Coats and Shoes for Kids, an annual event sponsored by the Woodford County Woman’s Club.
As the name of the event suggests, children from around the district receive a new coat, a new pair of shoes, and three new pairs of socks in preparation for the winter season. Students are transported to the local Kroger and are paired with a member of the Woman’s Club. The women escort their designated students through the clothing and shoe department; they help the participants try on items and select a proper fit. As far as what color and style each child wants, the choice is entirely theirs. On October 21st and 22nd of this year, 200 students district-wide came home with a coat, a pair of shoes, and socks. This is an incredible opportunity for the children of Woodford County.
While students are either waiting to shop or waiting to return to school, Kroger provides them with snacks and coloring sheets. Abby VanMeter, Family Resource Coordinator, praises our host for the event last week, saying, “We had a great selection [of coats and shoes], a discount on items, and snacks. Kroger was more than accommodating. It was very well run.” Sharon Tippett, member of the Woman’s Club and chair of the event, echoes this sentiment. She emphasizes, “Kroger had a great variety of proper coats that are good for cold weather. The children got to shop around to see what they like.”
According to Mrs. Tippett, the Coats and Shoes for Kids event was established over thirty years ago. Now the Woman’s Club is able to raise anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 annually for the event. “It truly is a county-wide effort,” Mrs. Tippett explains. She also says that her favorite part is simply seeing the happiness of the participants. “It’s heartwarming to see the kids come in; they’re so excited. They leave with a big smile on their faces.”
The Woodford County school district is thankful for the Woman’s Club for their dedication to providing for the needs of our students. Abby remarks on the selfless nature of the community. She says, “I think Woodford County in general is so giving and generous...We get a lot of need requests from families. Within a few hours or days, we get the need taken care of. Our community truly wants to help.”
Should you wish to join the efforts in providing for the needs of Woodford County children, the Family Resource Center is always welcoming donations. Please call (859) 753-7694 for more information regarding donations and support. Likewise, if you are interested in serving the community as a member of the Woodford County Woman’s Club, email WCWCKY@yahoo.com with your inquiry. The club is always looking for new members and is open to any woman in the county.
To the Woodford County Woman’s Club, Kroger, and all those who give back to the Woodford County community, thank you for your efforts. We are grateful for your partnership and support, and we are proud to say that together, We Are Woodford.
