The CEO of People’s City Mission says he’s overwhelmed by the community’s generosity after nearly 70,000 pairs of shoes were collected during the organization’s 16th annual drive. “After 23 years at the Mission, I am no longer surprised at Lincoln, Nebraska” CEO Tom Barber told KLIN News Friday morning.
“They just continue to give and meet the needs. Shoes are a huge need for people needing help.” Tables were lined with piles of shoes for men, women, and children, while large pallets held boxes filled to the top with thousands more.
Distribution is already underway at the Mission’s Help Center near 68th and O Street. Barber says all 70,000 pairs are expected to be given out within just three weeks. In addition to the shoe donations, the Mission received $5,000 in cash to purchase sizes that were in short supply.
At a Friday morning ceremony, Cornhusker Bank presented a check, continuing its 16-year partnership with the Mission through the “Day Without Shoes” campaign.
(Photos: KLIN’s Tom Stanton)