Community Boot Donation Supports Young Students
- January 24th 2025
- School News
Community Boot Donation Supports Young Students
Photo: York County Head Start and Early Head Start
By Sanford School Department
Sanford elementary school students are stepping into winter with confidence thanks to a generous donation from Kittery Trading Post and Smith’s All Natural. For the second consecutive year, these businesses have provided approximately 400 pairs of high-quality, waterproof winter boots to support local families.
Once delivered, the boots are distributed by Sanford Pride Elementary School Outreach among the elementary schools’ clothing closets, ensuring quick access for students who need them.
The impact of this donation reaches beyond the elementary classrooms; the boots have been shared with SRTC Pre-K, Bridge School students, preschool-age children at the family shelter, and Head Start programs.
“They allow students to fully participate in recess, walk safely to school or the bus, and stay active during the winter months,” Sanford outreach worker Leah Marks said. “We’ve even provided them to students who participate in our walking school bus program, ensuring they’re prepared for any weather conditions.”
The program’s implementation includes immediate support for new students entering the school system. The initiative also extends to fifth graders at the middle school for recess or walking to school, ensuring no student is left out.
Ayn and Jeff Hanselmann, along with Maureen Pelletier from the Sanford Backpack Program, coordinated this year’s delivery during one of the season’s snowfalls. A team of elementary outreach staff, school counselors, social workers, and administrators work together to connect students with these essential winter items.
