School shoes are a great first step
The truth is, shoes are very personal. That’s why we work closely with school support staff in a delivery and try-on process that The truth is, shoes are very personal. That’s why we work closely with our in-school partners in a delivery and try-on process that allows for returns if sizes or styles aren’t quite the perfect match, as well as open our doors during Warehouse Wednesdays for school support staff to come and shop for just the right pair. Our team works hard to help students feel comfortable and confident stepping into the classroom and beyond.
We rely on great partners to ensure each student has the shoes they need
New, name-brand shoes are distributed to every HERO student through the Soles4Souls 4EveryKid Program, which originated here in Nashville and now has grown to serve students experiencing homelessness in a similar manner nationwide! We ensure that we have additional shoes on hand for students who are not in the HERO Program by working with local partner Fleet Feet as well as donations from individuals. Several groups or individuals have collected and cleaned up hundreds of pairs as a fun and meaningful service project over the years.
I went to get a student who is living with his father in a hotel, barely getting by, out of class to show him what you all sent him. He opened up the box of shoes, and the look on his face was priceless. You would have thought I gave him a million dollars. This made not only his day but mine to know that I was able to put a smile on his face. I see him often in the halls, and he is still proudly wearing his new pair of shoes.
High School Family Engagement Specialist
Ways to Give
There are many easy ways you can make sure a child can start their day ready to learn.
We have amazing partners when it comes to shoes, but a gently-used shoe drive to build up
our extra inventory or funds that help when a very specific need arises
are two ways to ensure that we can help every family we serve.
Donate Funds
Donations go toward purchasing specific shoes for a student – perhaps for a performance, sport or just a specially needed size or style – or are used when HERO parents have employment needs. Nonslip soles, black shoes or steel-toe boots are common job requirements.
How to Host a Drive
Hosting a gently-used shoe drive is one of the easiest ways to help children feel comfortable and safe. Learn more and download our Host A Drive Toolkit!