For the second year in a row AdventHealth Ottawa and AdventHealth Ottawa Foundation partnered with the national nonprofit organization Shoes That Fit to provide a brand-new pair of name-brand athletic shoes and two pairs of socks to students across seven elementary schools in Franklin County, giving more than 1,500 pairs of shoes and 3,000 pairs of socks. During the kickoff distribution event that took place at Wellsville Elementary School, more than 300 students were provided shoes, socks and a breakfast. In the United States, one in three kids live in low-income families, and one of the most visible signs of poverty is shoes. Millions of children miss school, refrain from participating in sports, and face teasing and bullying due to worn-out shoes.
Board Chair of AdventHealth Ottawa Foundation, Ryan Henningsen says by providing students with new shoes and socks, their self-esteem is boosted, attendance improves, and participation in physical activities increases. He adds that the program helps ensure elementary school children in need in Franklin County can walk into school proud and ready to learn. USD 290 Superintendent, Dr. Ryan Cobbs, describes the shoe give away as having an impact beyond compare.
