When a School Resource Officer noticed a student was wearing badly tattered shoes, she spoke with district officials, who told her many other kids were in a similar situation. The officer spoke with co-workers, and together they began a fundraising effort to purchase shoes for kids in need.
With the goal of providing shoes and socks to 200 children, officers reached out to the community for assistance. Private and corporate support was overwhelming, and in less than three short weeks officers raised nearly $10,000, enabling them to double the number of recipients.
Officers reached out to the manager of a local shoe store, who agreed to extend a regional promotion and further discount shoes. The students were then selected with the assistance of school district officials and South Bay Community Services staff.
On Sunday, February 5 beginning at 7:30 a.m., more than 400 kids will meet at the Payless Shoe Source, 555 Broadway, (Chula Vista Center mall), where they’ll be allowed to select at no cost, one pair of shoes and six pairs of socks. Panera Bread and Starbucks Coffee, also located in the mall, will provide samples to participants, and radio stations Jammin’ Z90, 91X, and 92.5 will be there to promote the event.
In additional to several individuals, donors to this effort include Wal-Mart, Chula Vista Police Activities League, Bob and Sue Sutherland, Eastlake Church, Kiwanis of Chula Vista, Dave's Wholesale, and Elite Sports.
