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Longtime North Mpls. Business Gives Free Shoes To Kids For School

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A family with roots on the Northside for more than 100 years is giving back.

Friedman's Shoe Store has been on the north side of Minneapolis since 1889, and at their currently location on West Broadway since 1920. On Tuesday, Sue and Dave Friedman worked with others in the community to provide free shoes for kids, but the back-to-school giveaway is about much more than shoes.

"I'm from the North Side," Sue Friedman said. "I was born and raised over in Penn-Plymouth -- the Homewood area."

Her husband Dave's family has been in business in the community since the turn of the century, so they know what's needed in the community.

For the tenth year in a row, the Friedmans have given away shoes.

"It's such a nice, nice feeling to know that these kids can get a pair of shoes that don't have a chance," Sue said.

The Friedmans partnered with others who live and work on the north side to provide shoes, book bag, books and a gift basket to kids. The kids come from Ascension school, or the North Community YMCA. They benefit from the generosity of several of the Friedman's vendors and neighbors.

Kemp's Ice Cream truck provides the treats outside.

"Our plant is right there -- its right in the heart of the community, if we can't donate some ice cream some, and some product, who can?" said Pat Elwell from Kemps Ice Cream.

For the kids inside, it's their time to shine, to feel special, to feel a part of a community that cares for them.

The Friedman's say they are trying to strengthen the North side by teaching the youngest that there is a lot to be gained by being a good neighbor. The Friedman's say today's giveaway would not be possible without the help of all their community partners. More than 30 families with two or more kids benefited from today's event.

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