Community Back to Basics Clothing Excursion

Many changes mark this year’s Community Back-to-School Basic Clothing Excursion, formerly known as the Shopko Shopping Spree. The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Social Services has historically taken about 30-50 kids experiencing poverty shopping for new school clothing. These kids are referred by school counselors and other community partners who identify those needing the most help with back-to-school clothing. This year, with a generous grant from United Way and the contributions of individuals in the community, The Salvation Army will take over 100 kids shopping!
 
Due to the increase in size of the event, it will now occur over two days, with half the kids going on August 18 and half going August 19. Kids will start the day at the Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center, where they will swim, eat tasty sandwiches and fruit, and interact with friendly volunteers. They will then be transported to Shopko, where they will pair up with a “shopping buddy” and begin picking out shirts, pants, socks, shoes, and all the necessary clothing items they can get with their $150 gift card. This money goes far with Shopko’s generous discounts.
 
One of the essential components that makes this event so special is the one-on-one interaction the kids get with volunteers. Each has a shopping buddy who helps keep track of money, helps them create outfits, and takes the time to get to know them. Volunteers are still needed to fill this role! We need 60 shopping buddies each day of the Community Back to Basic Clothing Excursion. Volunteers will help their student buddy shop for school clothes then come over to the Kroc Community Center for a fun swimming experience in the pool. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Adilene Arevalo at 503-798-4783 or at Adilene.arevalo@usw.salvationarmy.org.
 
The Salvation Army is also seeking cash or Shopko gift card donations to take more kids shopping. The need in Marion and Polk Counties is far greater than the number of kids participating. If you would like to sponsor a child to go shopping, please contact Lacey Carlson at 503-798-4843 or lacey.carlson@usw.salvationarmy.org