Shoes For Souls
Shoes for Souls is a partnership between The Life Center and local schools to make sure every student in need has access to a new pair of shoes. Many families facing income shortages can’t afford to purchase new shoes for quickly growing students. This program, with the support of many caring people, has enabled us to show love and support to hundreds of local students one new pair of shoes at a time.
Every year students with no other option come to school with shoes that don’t fit, or shoes worn through with holes.
If students don’t wear the appropriate shoes they must sit out of gym class, or may have trouble playing on the playground. This can effect their self esteem and opportunities to build friendships.
The support of our local churches and community have given this program has enabled us to set up shoe closets inside some of our local schools. This way teachers and guidance counselors can help students immediately when they see a need.
Middle School Counselor - Three Rivers
“I have seen many students in our school walk by with holes in their shoes. How grateful I am to have this resource to go to with such easy access and to be able to give to the students as soon as possible. When asking the students could you use some new shoes? Their eyes widen with excitement but also a little confused/doubtful, "yes?" I simply ask them size and call them back down in private and give them a couple options to choose from. I have seen so many emotions during this experience: hugs, tears, smiles, and so many times "thank you Miss Lippert." I think to myself this isn't me who is giving them these shoes but I am so I happy to be the bridge in between to help bring your generosity to our students in the community who need them the most. Thank you for give our students comfort and confidence with their new shoes, they are so grateful for every single pair!”
Before the school year begins parents bring their student into The Life Center for a fitting.
Our volunteers help them find the right fit and allow students to choose from several pairs to find something they are proud to wear.
*If you live in the Cleves, Ohio area and you think your child will qualify for a new pair of shoes, please contact your guidance counselor for more information.
Guidance Counselor - Three Rivers Local Schools
“We had a family that was emergency placed with family in our district. Their mother was killed and they had to grab their things and move in with an aunt. The children only had the shoes on their feet. In particular the high school girl was wearing an older pair of crocs. At Taylor she was enrolled in PE and was trying to run and participate in shoes that were not appropriate for class. We were able to let her pick out a new pair of gym shoes...she was so grateful. After this encounter I felt such joy when I saw her in the halls wearing these shoes every single day to school.”
How To Donate Shoes
Buy Shoes and Bring them to Whitewater Crossing
Make a Donation
Loving People The Way Jesus Did
Our Shoes for Souls program works because of the love and effort put in place by our volunteers. There is nothing like seeing the joy in the face of a child when they try on their new pair of shoes.
Many of the volunteers who participate in Shoes for Souls come from our partnership with Whitewater Crossing Christian Church.
**Look for more information on volunteering for the event soon.
