Haven for Hope donates school essentials to children in need

Greehey Family Foundation donates 900 pairs of designer shoes

SAN ANTONIO – Families are getting ready to send their children off to school and it’s no different for those living at Haven for Hope. The organization held its annual back to school fair Saturday morning to help make sure children have what they need before stepping in the classroom.

From school supplies to dental screenings and care, Haven for Hope provided 150 children with the tools they need to start the new school year off on the right foot.

“If someone has got a horrible cavity, we don't want to say, 'OK, we've done a screening, but you've got a cavity.' We want to be able to take care of it,” said Laura Calderon, director of external relations of Haven for Hope.

Children received backpacks filled with school supplies, uniforms and new shoes.

“It just gives people a chance for a new life to start over. A lot of us are broken. A lot of us have next to nothing, have lost a lot, and this gives us a chance to come back up and feel good about ourselves,” said Michael Harvey, a single father of two.

The giving didn’t end at Haven for Hope. The Greehey Family Foundation donated 900 pairs of designer shoes that will go to needy families in San Antonio.

Saturday’s fair was more than just free school supplies, it was about having a good time and creating memories. The children enjoyed live music, dancing and even got to meet a few reptiles.

“We have it every year. We’ll keep having it again. It’s all about the kids on this day,” said Kenny Wilson, president and CEO of Haven for Hope.