This past Sunday, the Sandpipers distributed $24,500 in clothes, shoes and school supplies to 70 local students in need at its annual Back-to-School Shopping event.

At the event, hosted by Kohl’s in Torrance, each child was paired with a member of Sandpipers and Sandpiper Juniors who assisted them with selecting and purchasing school clothes, shoes, uniforms, and supplies.

The children benefiting from the event were referred by ten local nonprofit partner agencies. All told, each child received more than $350 in supplies for the school year.

Support for the event comes from Kohl’s, which opens their doors before normal business hours, provides staff for the event, and gives the event’s shoppers an additional 20 percent off and no sales tax.

Additionally, Sandpipers donated backpacks loaded with school supplies for each student.

“Our Back-to-School Shopping program started in 1999 and continues to be a favorite amongst our membership,” said Sandpipers President Joyce Chaput. "It is a special day where the membership gets to see their fundraising dollars at work, making a direct impact in the lives of those in need who are working hard to overcome challenges.”

A parent of one of the children noted that this opportunity is a huge confidence booster for their child as they enter the new school year. “My son would not have the chance to get new clothes if it weren’t for your organization. We are truly so grateful.”

With more than 800 volunteer members, Sandpipers has raised and distributed more than $2.2 million dollars in the past five years. These funds have been disbursed through Sandpipers’ various programs including emergency casework, the Back-to-School Shopping Program, holiday baskets, college scholarships and community grants. For more information, visit www.sandpipers.org.