Shoes That Fit is proud to partner with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation along with “Kershaw’s Challenge,” (a charity established by Ellen and Clayton Kershaw). On October 10th, we provided new shoes to more than 800 students at 92nd St. Elementary in Watts, CA, as well as boxes of fresh food. The event took play at Ted Watkins Memorial Park, the site of two Dodger dreamfields. To protect everyone, all wore masks and practiced social distancing, and the shoes and boxes of food were delivered safely into car trunks. But the kids’ excitement over their new shoes couldn’t be hid by any mask!
Kershaw’s Challenge has awarded Shoes That Fit a $200,000 grant to provide shoes to 8,000 children in Los Angeles and Dallas. While Clayton and Ellen were unable to attend the event (because he was pitching games like a boss!), he did have this to say:
“Sometimes meeting a basic need—like providing shoes for kids to go to school and be kids—that’s the stuff that matters most. We love the mission of Shoes That Fit because it is so simple—get new shoes on the feet of kids,” said Clayton Kershaw. “This event means a lot to us at Kershaw’s Challenge. Postseason baseball is in full swing, but we are so grateful for the friends and partners who are making this event possible. My hope is that a pair of new shoes makes these kids feel seen, known and loved.”
The Dodgers Foundation also awarded a $20,000 grant to Shoes that Fit. LADF CEO Nichol Whiteman was able to attend the drive through and added.
“While the start of the new school year has been unconventional, the need for a new, well-fitting pair of shoes is more important than ever to keep kids active and healthy as they learn remotely.” “Too many families must choose between putting food on the table or buying new shoes. It is our hope this will provide some relief to the families and joy to the kids during these unprecedented times.”
Vesta Food Service and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank also participated, providing boxes of grocery staples to the families of 92nd Street Elementary.
92nd Street Elementary principal, Hugh Ryan, shared: “The memory of the Shoes That Fit event will stay with me for a long time, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic we are facing. It was heartwarming to see our students and parents drive through the shoe pick-up and food distribution areas. Even though they were wearing face coverings, I knew they were smiling. I am eternally grateful to the Shoes That Fit organization and to the Dodgers Foundation, and Clayton Kershaw family for their generosity and support of our school community.”
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. Good things happen for the Dodgers after they give shoes! It’s good juju!
Go win that World Series!
