DETROIT – We put the call out, and YOU answered for our August Go 4 It event, Shoes for School, helping kids start the school year with brand-new shoes.
Partnering with the nonprofit Lace Up Detroit, we spent the day at Durfee Innovation Society on Detroit’s west side collecting new sneakers and cash donations.
“I really wish I can do more,” Marie Adams said after dropping off a donation.
Serta Restokraft CEO and president Larry Kraft donated $15,000, and Rachel Stewart of Gardner White matched his donation.
“It just bothered me hearing the story about kids just not be able to have shoes, going to school with shoes that don’t fit, are too small for their feet,” Kraft said.
Throughout the day, we watched the tally of pairs of shoes donated rise.
By 6 p.m. our Local 4 viewers donated 3,100 pairs of shoes.
What was especially meaningful was getting to the heart of your donation.
“I went to this school, grew up down the street, and this really resonates with me,” Charlotte Miller said.
“My mom raised foster children for many, many years, we know how important it is to provide for students in the community,” Raymond Smith of ABC Student Transportation shared.
One woman donated in memory of her neighbor who had recently passed away.
Click here if you would still like to donate.
Students will be able to pick out a new pair of shoes next month. Thank you, Metro Detroit, for your generosity.
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