LYNN — All Lynn Track and Field, a new nonprofit, held a Sneakers for Stars fundraiser at Rolly’s Tavern on the Square in Lynn.
“We asked the community to help support through raffles or by donating a pair of new or gently-used running sneakers,” said Lynn School Committee member Tristan Smith, who coaches St. Mary’s track and cross country programs, “so that every kid in Lynn has access to the sport of running and track.”
An estimated 250 pairs of sneakers were collected for kids in need. Lynn high school track coaches will administer distribution.
“We put the kids’ needs first,” said Lynn Tech track and cross country coach John Hogan. “Most kids will come up for the first time not knowing about track and don’t know the proper shoes. We can now supply some of those kids with the proper shoes.”
Those who donated were entered into a raffle for a new pair of sneakers from Marathon Sports.
“We also raised money through raffles and a portion of tonight’s proceeds to create an account to purchase shoes if we don’t have a certain size for someone who needs it,” Smith said. “We do have plans to expand this in the future to potentially include middle school or elementary school athletes, like those who participate in the summer track meets at Manning Field.”
Lynn English track and cross country coach Jackie Ramirez, a former standout with the Bulldogs, worked to secure donations from brands such as Puma and Brooks.
“It’s important for their health and for great results on the track,” Ramirez said.
The nonprofit’s next event is the All City Track and Field Championship on May 26.
