SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

More than 8,300 pairs of socks were distributed to needy students in Charlotte County Public Schools, thanks to the Punta Gorda Kiwanis Club. At its weekly meeting Thursday at the Laishley Crab House in Punta Gorda, club members donated the socks to representatives from various schools. Socks for Kids is a signature project, coinciding with the Shoes for Kids project. About 30 members and guests were in attendance.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

From left, Dale Dandy, representing Myakka River and Peace River elementary schools; Bill Klossner, past president of the Punta Gorda Kiwanis, representing Sallie Jones Elementary School; Susan Flores, on behalf of Punta Gorda Middle School, and East and Deep Creek elementaries; Larry Taylor, immediate past president of the Punta Gorda Kiwanis and Socks for Kids chairman; Sandi Currier, representing Kingsway Elementary and Port Charlotte Middle schools; Kaye Carpenter, on behalf of Meadow Park Elementary School; and Joan Greene, foundation trustee, past president and co-chair of Socks for Kids.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

President Gene Murtha listens as Larry Taylor speaks about the Socks for Kids project.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Susan Flores, right, thanks Bill Klossner, left, and the Punta Gorda Kiwanis for the Socks for Kids project. Dale Dandy looks on.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

President Gene Murtha welcomes Connie Thrasher, lieutenant governor of Kiwanis Division 18, South Sarasota and Charlotte counties, who spoke to members and guests at the weekly luncheon.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Punta Gorda school representative Susan Flores happily carries out the bag of socks destined for her schools.