TAMPA, Fla. — “Shoes are something so basic that many of us take it for granted,” said Michele Manzo-Lembo, the President of the Krewe of Alegria.

What You Need To Know

  • Krewe of Alegria is an all-woman krewe founded in 1986

  • "Kicks for Kids Campaign" is one of their signature fundraisers

  • Krewe members do charitable work through the year to qualify to ride in parades

  • Children's Home Network fosters about 60 young people on their Tampa campus

Manzo-Lembo is checking out the footwear at the Children’s Home Network in Tampa boutique.

Manzo-Lembo has collected thousands of pairs of shoes in her 12 years with the Krewe of Alegria — it’s one of their charitable works.

“We are so delighted to be able to provide brand new shoes to these children for their ‘Kicks for Kids Campaign,’” said Manzo-Lembo.

The Children’s Home Network offers this store for the approximately 60 children living on its Tampa campus — all for free.

“I think it’s about confidence and comfort and dignity,” said Taylor Cheeseman, Executive Vice President for Operations at the Children’s Home Network.

Cheeseman says community partners like the Krewe of Alegria helped make the boutique possible — giving time, money and donations.

“It goes beyond — something that the Krewe has done is support holiday meals with food,” said Cheeseman. “Being able to give a great Thanksgiving experience to the kids on campus that can make this setting which, though it could never be home — it makes it homelike.”

For Manzo-Lembo, it’s more than a Krewe charity — it’s a mission.

“One of the ways we give back to the community aside from having fun and entertaining is being able to provide support for children in need throughout Tampa Bay,” said Manzo-Lembo.

One pair of shoes at a time.