EAST KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - More families were able to stock on the necessities thanks to the 9th annual "Shoes for School" event.

At least two thousand kids and many volunteers and parents packed Caswell Park in east Knoxville on Saturday morning.

Children not only got new pairs of shoes, but also a backpack and the supplies to fill it up.

Parents were stocking up bags worth of goods, and it was all thanks to donations.

"I see families, I see kids that are very, very excited. They have new backpacks. Their arms are loaded with shoes," said Phyllis Nichols, the President and CEO of Knoxville Area Urban League.

"It makes me sad a little bit. But the good thing is we have a community that will help," said Kendra Maples, a volunteer from First Promise Church.

Dozens of local companies help make the event happen each year.