AFL-CIO offering sensory room for Soles for Christ program

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The 2026 Soles for Christ event, sponsored by AFL-CIO Community Services, will be providing additional accommodations for children who are neurodivergent.

This year's program is set to introduce a sensory room separate from the main area where children pick and try on the shoes. Children who are neurodivergent now will have access to a space intended to be quiet, controlled and free of external distractions as they select a new pair shoes.

"We prioritized having a room specifically dedicated for children who struggle in large groups or need a quieter space to try on the shoes," AFL-CIO Programs Coordinator Ashley Luthans said. "The room is meant for kids who are neurodivergent, meaning they have a sensory condition like autism, ADHD or Tourette's syndrome. The room is meant to provide a calmer experience for those children."

According to the National Library of Medicine, studies performed back in 2024 found 78.2% of parents rated sensory room therapy as effective, 62% saw noticeable improvements in kids behavior and 80% noted improvement in kids engagement in extracurricular activities.

The need to add a sensory room to Soles for Christ came from members of AFL-CIO noticing the discomfort and challenges neurodivergent children have had.

"Every year we have kids who have neurodivergent conditions or different struggles," Luthans said. "By adding the sensory room, we're able to provide accommodations to those children. We want to make it a little bit easier for both them and their caregiver to find the right shoes and have the best possible experience."

AFL-CIO's 2026 Soles for Christ distribution event will take place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 11 and 12 at the Scottish Rite Temple, located on 515 N. Sixth St. For more information, visit the AFL-CIO's website.

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