The staff members of Dewald Funeral and Cremation Services, a family-owned business, believe in giving back. They're hosting their annual sneaker, socks and underwear drive through the end of November to help students in Solanco School District.

"As a family, we always ask a question when we see a need: 'How can we help?'" said Kara Miller, office manager. "With a collection drive like this, we're raising awareness and, by collecting from the community, we can exponentially expand our impact. If everyone gives just a little, it makes a big impact."

Dewald began hosting the drive in 2020 during the height of the pandemic.

"So many families had lost income due to the shutdown, and we were looking for a way to help alleviate their burden," Kara said.

She had a conversation with Mary Humphries, the guidance counselor at Quarryville Elementary School, and learned that more families than ever were visiting the school's Swappe Shoppe.

"This is a place where you can give gently used clothes, and anyone can shop for free, no questions asked," Kara explained of the stores located in each Solanco school. It's set up during school open houses and is available by appointment at other times.

"Usually, the guidance counselor can keep a pretty good stock of clothing, but at the time, they really needed coats," Kara remarked.

Dewald held a coat drive and collected so many children's coats the first year, the supply lasted for years.

"The next year, she said the other things they have a hard time with are sneakers, socks and underwear," Kara said. "She asked us if we could collect those."

Sneakers in good condition are particularly hard to find since children tend to wear them out quickly, Kara noted, adding that both new and gently used sneakers will be accepted for the drive, along with new socks and new underwear.

Sneakers for children ages 5 to 12 are especially needed, she said, including children's size 11 through youth size 5.

In 2023, Dewald collected 1,643 pairs of shoes, and while that number dropped a bit to 901 last year, Kara is optimistic this year's drive will be a success.

"We have a very generous community," she said.

While the program began as a way to support Quarryville Elementary students, the collection has expanded to benefit students at all of the Solanco School District elementary schools, as well as the middle school and high school.

"Quarryville Elementary students, staff and families are deeply grateful for the incredible support we receive from community businesses like Dewald Funeral and Cremation Services," said Humphries, noting that both Kara and her husband, Michael, are local business owners and Quarryville Elementary School parents. "The support from community members like Kara and Michael ensures that our students are cared for and confident, allowing them to focus on what matters most - learning and growing together.

People may drop off items in the foyer of Dewald Funeral and Cremation Services, 227 W. Fourth St., Quarryville, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. now through the end of November. To donate at other times or for more information, call Kara at 717-786-3530 or email her at kara@dewalds.com.