SOCK IT TO `EM ASSISTANCE LEAGUE AIDS NEEDY KIDS.

Byline: Sandra J. Terrell Staff Writer

THOUSAND OAKS - Recognizing that there are children in the Conejo Valley without adequate clothing, the local Assistance League is raising money to buy shoes and socks for needy youngsters.

``Around Christmastime, we send out a little sock to people - we have a mailing list of 1900 - in the hope that they'll return that sock with some money. Then we pair it up with another sock and give it away,'' said Malinda Hammer, chairwoman of the Sock It To 'Em campaign.

Last year, the organization provided shoes to 136 students at Conejo, Park Oak, Glenwood, Walnut and Manzanita Elementary schools, Hammer said. Organizers hope to expand to expand the program to Simi Valley and Moorpark this spring.

Principals and teachers identify students who could use some help.

``We researched to see which schools might need shoes and socks and found out there definitely was a need,'' said Hammer. ``One principal told me they use steel tape to repair their shoes just so that the kids can get through the day.

``A lot of kids are wearing shoes that are two sizes too small . . . their little toes are curled up inside the shoes.

``I was really shocked to see that there were so many children that had this need and we're just happy that we can help them out,'' said Hammer.

The children are proud and delighted with their new shoes, and very appreciative, Hammer said.

The Assistance League of Conejo Valley, established in 1995, is made up of approximately 70 women who reside in and serve the communities of Agoura, Moorpark, Oak Park, Newbury Park, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village.

For information about the Assistance League, or to contribute, call [phone].

CAPTION(S):

2 photos

Photo: (1 -- 2) Last year, local Assistance League helped provide shoes and socks to 136 schoolchildren who needed them. Members include (from left to right) Karen Fitzpatrick, Brenda Elsen, Ida Dillender and Judy Bottomley.