SHREVEPORT, La. — Helping students return to school with confidence was the goal Saturday as the African American Celebration Parade Committee hosted its 22nd annual Back-to-School Shoe Giveaway, providing free shoes to children ahead of the new school year. The giveaway took place at the Walmart Supercenter on Pines Road, where students ages 6 to 20 were invited to pick out a new pair of shoes. Volunteers helped each child find the right size and style before leaving with their new footwear. Soon-to-be fourth grader Kingston Bandy said he knew exactly what he wanted. "I was looking for some black shoes that would go with any outfit I put on," Bandy said. "I'm very excited, and I really want to thank this community." Barbara Norton, founder of the African American Celebration Parade Committee, said seeing the children's excitement and renewed confidence makes the event worthwhile. "To see these children walk out of here carrying a pair of shoes in their hands and smiling, with their self-esteem up, it just makes me feel good," Norton said. "We know there are so many people who need the services we're providing, and we're going to continue bringing smiles to their faces." The annual giveaway has become a longstanding tradition in Shreveport. Since its inception, the African American Celebration Parade Committee has provided more than 36,000 pairs of new shoes to children throughout the community. Norton said she hopes the organization will continue giving back and helping local families for many years to come.

SHREVEPORT, La. — A long-standing community initiative is once again helping local students prepare for the upcoming school year. Registration is underway for the 22nd annual back-to-school shoe and backpack giveaway, hosted by the African American Celebration Parade Committee.

SHREVEPORT, La. — The African American Celebration Parade Committee is once again helping local families prepare for the upcoming school year through its 22nd annual Back-to-School Shoe and Backpack Giveaway.Founder Barbara Norton says the program is about more than providing shoes — it’s about helping students start the school year with confidence.“We want to make sure that they are sitting there smiling and feeling confidence in themselves and that their self-esteem is up,” Norton said.Since its inception, the giveaway has provided more than 36,000 pairs of new shoes to students across the region.Families can register Tuesday from 1 to 4 p.m. at Shoppers Value on Greenwood Road or from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Hearne Avenue location. Registration will also be held Wednesday from 3:30 to 6 p.m. at Shoppers Value on North Market Street.The giveaway is set for July 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Walmart on Pines Road. Parents must bring a photo ID, proof of government assistance, and their children to participate.

SHREVEPORT, La. — Existing and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered Saturday afternoon in the Bill Cockrell Park Community Center Gymnasium for a free event focused on business development and financial literacy.