United Way gets ready for Kidspree

July 6, 2010

BY DAVID CONGALTON

It is one of the more meaningful nonprofit events held on the Central Coast–the chance to help young boys and girls in need get the basic clothes and supplies to start off the upcoming school year literally on the right foot.

For many years, United Way of San Luis Obispo sponsored “Childspree” in conjunction with Mervyn’s, but then the department store folded and the event was cancelled in 2009.

However, Kohl’s has stepped in, offering both its San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles stores for the newly renamed “Kidspree,” now scheduled for Sunday morning, July 25.

Here is how it works: For every $100 that United Way can raise, another local child, nominated through local Social Services programs, is allowed to participate. The goal, according to organizers is to reach 300 young people.

The event is scheduled from 7 to 9 a.m. Children are brought to Kohl’s by their parents, but the adults aren’t allowed inside the store. Instead, the children, ranging from K-12, are matched with volunteers who help in shopping in the normally-closed stores. Each participant gets $100 to spend on clothing.

“We’re so thrilled to be able to bring this event back,” said Rick London, executive director of United Way. “It’s amazing to witness the amount of good that is accomplished in such a short period of time.”

Obviously, London would like people to jump online and make a donation. But there is also a special need for volunteers, age 18 or older, who can help the young people shop–especially in Paso Robles. Interested volunteers can call United Way at 541-1234 for more information.