ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – An Escanaba nonprofit is helping families get ready for back-to-school season.
On Friday, July 10, Mission of Hope Delta County will host its 8th annual Glow Run in Ludington Park. Participants can run or walk the route, and the only cost to attend is one new pair of gym shoes per person. Families who participate together are asked to bring two pairs of shoes. Sizes 1 through 10 are requested.
“We’ll be at the bandshell, and people can just come on out,” said Mission of Hope Director Paul Culbertson. “Come with all the glow material you want, or we’ll have some to give out. Amp’d UP Entertainment will get some music going, and we’ll have a photobooth. It’s going to be a great night.”
On August 2, Mission of Hope will hand out those shoes to families at no charge during its annual distribution event at the U.P. State Fairgrounds. Volunteers will also be giving away free school supplies, hygiene products, diapers, substance abuse awareness resources, and even haircuts.
Culbertson says what may seem like a small donation to one person can make a huge difference in the life of a local child.
“I was the kid that needed Mission of Hope growing up,” he said. “I remember going to school and not having everything that I needed and always feeling self-conscious. I didn’t really have confidence in who I was or what I was doing. My hope is to come alongside kids with our community, organizations, churches, and help every kid walk into school with confidence. They have their shoes, their supplies, and they’re ready to go.”
Registration for Mission of Hope’s 8th annual Glow Run begins at 8 p.m. Click here for additional information.
To learn more about Mission of Hope’s August 2 distribution event, click here.
