Kids in Seattle receive new shoes

Do you remember when you received a brand new pair of running shoes when you were a kid? You probably thought those shoes were going to make you jump higher and run faster. Well this week, there are 56 faster kids in Seattle.

The children enrolled in the after school program at Madrona Elementary School may not have much, but now they can sport a new pair of athletic shoes. Many of these kids come from poor families or single parent homes where mom or dad may have to work two jobs just to pay for the necessities, like food and the mortgage. A new pair of shoes is a luxury item.

"Their shoes were just falling apart," said after school coordinator, Jeanene Laegreid. "They were so excited to receive new shoes! On behalf of Madrona Elementary, I want to thank Soles4Souls for the donation to the students."

The students have already made good use of them. Many of the kids are involved in the Walking in Steps for Health program. They are learning about good nutrition and the importance of exercise. After school, they do a number of track activities including running laps, relays, low hurdles and dashes. They have held their own track meet and next week, they will run in the SeaTac Fun Run.

Expect to see 56 kids leading the pack.