From staff reports:

FUSION (Friends United to Shelter the Indigent, Oppressed, and Needy) has been selected as an official partner of Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids, an annual giving program from Payless ShoeSource.

FUSION will be distributing coupons for children’s shoes to the families on its client list. FUSION’s mission is to provide housing and support services to the homeless in our community so they will have a safe, secure environment as they work toward self-sufficiency.

Although studies show that properly fitting shoes are important for children’s health and development, a striking number of children don’t own a pair of shoes that fit, according to a news release.

“Community partnerships with local businesses and foundations provide a lifeline of support to non-profits such as FUSION. The Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids Holiday Giving Program is a wonderful example of how we can work together to provide for the most vulnerable and needy families of our community,” said Bob Wroblewski, president, FUSION board of directors.

To learn more about FUSION and its role in the Federal Way area, visit www.fusionfederalway.org or call (253) 874-1257.