June 17, 2024
A generous alumni donor recently funded new shoes for all 1,500 students at San Bernardino High.
The students came in throughout the day on May 23rd, each with their English class. Volunteers helped them find shoes in their size, including brands such as Nike, On Running, Fila, etc.
As one news announcer said, “It’s almost like a shoe-store in this gymnasium.”
Principal Anna Sosa shared about the need for new shoes:
“Some of our students unfortunately cannot afford multiple pairs of shoes. They use one pair of shoes for school and by the end of the year they are worn out.”
Camila, a senior heading to college next year, expressed her thanks,
“It’s one less thing to worry about. I can now put that money towards my college tuition.”
Tristan Mondragon, also a senior, shared:
“I had two pairs of shoes that I couldn’t wear anymore because my feet are too big now. I can finally live with comfier footsies!”
“It is heartwarming to know that there are organizations like Shoes That Fit who are dedicated to supporting the community and ensuring that every individual has access to basic necessities.” – Anna Sosa, Principal, San Bernardino High School
Kenesha Boyd from San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran's office came to present a certificate of appreciation to Shoes That Fit and donors.
“We are so grateful to all of our partners that make something like this possible. Being able to do this is a dream. There are so many problems we can’t solve, but we can solve shoes, we can provide shoes to kids who need them.” – Julie Stevens, Chief of Staff, Shoes That Fit
A huge thank you to all the volunteers – from CIMpact,GEODIS, etc. – who helped make the day run smoothly. And our heartfelt thanks to the generous donor who made it all possible.
Would you like to make a difference in your childhood school, town, or city? Get in touch at info@shoesthatfit.org.
So, other parts of your budget have to give. You have to go without something. And for low-income families with children, that can mean new shoes for growing feet just aren’t possible anymore.
71% of teachers and school staff that we work with responded to our recent survey that more children are in need of shoes than in prior years.
The growing need highlighted above shows how deeply everyday essentials impact a child’s ability to learn and thrive, reminding us that the foundation for academic and personal success often begins with addressing basic needs and creating nurturing environments.
When children have access to supportive schools and resources, they are better prepared to focus on their studies and develop confidence in themselves. This naturally extends beyond the classroom to the earliest years of development, where the right guidance and surroundings shape future growth.
A well-structured childcare facility plays a vital role in this stage, offering young learners a safe and encouraging space to build social skills, explore creativity, and gain the tools they will later carry into school. By investing in environments that prioritize both care and education from the start, communities ensure that children not only meet immediate needs but also receive the long-term support required to flourish academically and emotionally.
“With the rising costs of food, housing, clothing, gas, etc. families are just stretched so thin right now. Money has to go further, meaning clothes have to last longer and shoes have to be worn much longer than before. Little feet continue to grow, so I see students very regularly that have long outgrown their shoes but their parents cannot afford to buy new ones. Students have to wear siblings' shoes that are often not the right size and are well past their better days.” – Coordinator, Family Resource Center, Eubank, KY
This same financial strain extends beyond clothing and daily essentials into housing as well. Many college students face similar challenges, struggling to balance tuition, living expenses, and basic needs. Affordable and safe options, such as student housing orem, can make a real difference by reducing the burden on families and giving students the stability they need to focus on their education. Without access to such resources, the weight of rising costs continues to limit opportunities for young people trying to build a better future.
Housing stability is not only a concern for students but also for families and individuals who may be facing financial pressures, sudden life changes, or the need to relocate quickly. The process of selling a home under these circumstances can often feel overwhelming, especially when traditional methods involve long waiting periods, extensive repairs, or complicated negotiations. For many, the ability to sell a property efficiently can provide the financial relief and peace of mind needed to focus on the next stage of life.
Creating more accessible pathways for homeowners ensures that housing transitions are less of a burden and more of an opportunity for growth and stability. One practical step in easing this transition is having access to clear and trustworthy information about selling options. Homeowners often begin by exploring a website that offers guidance, answers to common questions, and straightforward solutions tailored to their needs. This approach allows people to make informed choices without unnecessary delays or stress. When resources are transparent and supportive, individuals can navigate the housing market with greater confidence, ensuring that the sale of their property is not just a transaction but a stepping stone toward a more secure future.
To help families like these, please give today. Your gift helps families who are struggling to afford the basics, like groceries. Your generosity makes sure these children have shoes that actually fit, shoes that allow them to learn, play, and thrive at school.
