Back-to-school event helps at-risk kids

donated over 500 pairs of socks and Saucony sneakers, and store employees were on hand to fit the children in their new shoes.

Each child had a personal shopper to help them select a backpack, shirt, pants, sweatshirt, underwear, shoes, socks, winter jacket, hat, gloves and a book.

J’ai Noah, 10, of the Hill District picked “Real Hoops” by Fred Bowen.

He’s eager to return for fifth grade at St. Benedict the Moor School, where he plays percussion in the school band, because “I like learning. I like reading and science.”

While their children shopped, parents and relatives strolled through the Family Resource Center, where volunteers and staff members from agencies that assist families were on hand to answer questions and distribute information, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Amachi Pittsburgh, Resolve Crisis Network, Tobacco Free Allegheny and UPMC for Kids.

Helping the children try on winter jackets were three members of the Pittsburgh Firefighters International Association of Fire Fighters Local No. 1.

The union donated the jackets as part of its Operation Warm project, which last year provided 3,300 coats to children in need. Inside each jacket is a tag, “Made Just for You!” with space for the owners to write their name.

“For some children, it’s the first time they’ve received a new winter coat,” said John Gardell, union vice president. “It brings them a sense of pride.”