California State Assemblymember Chris Holden hosts a holiday party every year. And it has become part of the tradition of the party to give shoes to kids in need!
Assemblyman Holden represents the 41st Assembly District, including cities in the northern San Gabriel Valley. Prior to his election to the Assembly, Holden served 24 years as a Pasadena City Councilmember and Mayor. He was the youngest City Councilmember at age 28 and only the second African American to serve as Mayor. A father of five, Holden knows a thing or two about growing kids!
Members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority attended the event and brought over 80 pairs of shoes. Alpha Kappa Alpha began in 1908 at Howard University in Washington, DC and was the first sorority founded by African-American women. The ladies enjoyed doing a bit of holiday shopping for others, especially since it was for children in need.
Santa, of course, made an appearance at the holiday party. And since Santa gets his origins from St. Nicholas, he’s a perfect match with Shoes That Fit. St. Nick’s day on Dec. 6th is often celebrated by kids setting out their shoes to be filled with treats. And this time, the shoes were the treat!
Party-goers brought 140 pairs of shoes and 82 packages of socks. Thank you Assemblyman Holden, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and all the holiday revellers! Your gift brings joy to kids this season!