TOPEKA (KSNT) – Sole Reason, a Topeka-based non-profit, is expanding its operations to Manhattan to further help kids in need.
Since 2016, Sole Reason has provided nearly 9,500 pairs of shoes to kids in need in the Topeka community. Located in the old Lundgren Elementary school in north Topeka, the non-profit is looking to give kids the opportunity to tie their shoes in other counties as well.
“There was a need beyond the Topeka community that he [CEO Jerry Hudgins] felt Sole Reason could meet,” Public Relations Specialist for Sole Reason India Yarborough said. “And, so, that’s really where this expansion is coming from. It’s just looking at the good community nearby and saying, you know what, there are kids who need us just as much in Manhattan as they do in Topeka, and so if we can do something to provide some new sneakers to kids in need there, let’s do it.”
Last Friday, the non-profit hosted an exclusive launch event with the Boys & Girls Club in Manhattan, where they gave out 100 pairs of shoes to kids in the little apple. Yarborough says this comes at a perfect time with the school year right around the corner, as it gives kids the confidence they need and helps them focus on learning rather than a pair of shoes that might not fit.
“I know it sounds simple, going back to school to just be able to get your kids a pair of shoes, but not every family can do that,” Yarborough said. “So, this is really important for Sole Reason to be able to really launch and expand at this point in time to make sure some of those kids in the Manhattan community have those sneakers right before the school year starts.”
For more information about Sole Reason and how you can get a new pair of shoes, click here.
