Bowling Green Rotary Shoe Project gives more than 500 pairs to students
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — For some elementary school students in Warren County, a new pair of shoes means more than something new to wear. It means having footwear that fits and something they can feel proud of.
The Bowling Green Rotary Club is providing more than 500 pairs of shoes to students at six elementary schools across Warren County through its annual shoe project.
Students at Parker-Bennett-Curry Elementary School and Warren Elementary School were among those receiving new shoes.
The project works with school staff and family resource coordinators to identify students who need assistance. Rotary volunteers then purchase and deliver the shoes, with each pair prepared for its recipient.
Students who need socks also receive them as part of the effort.
Joseph Laverty, director of the Bowling Green Rotary Club’s shoe project, said seeing children without properly fitting shoes puts the importance of the project into perspective.
“My wife and I have two kids, and I think when you come out here and you see kids with shoes that are too small, it really makes an impact,” Laverty said.
More than 30 Rotary volunteers help with the project. Including school staff and resource coordinators, Laverty estimates between 50 and 60 people are involved.
At Parker-Bennett-Curry Elementary, Family Resource Coordinator Sarah Minix said the annual visit is something students look forward to.
“This is like Christmas,” Minix said. “We’re so thankful for their partnership with us.”
Minix said some students have only one pair of shoes, while others wear shoes that are too big or too small.
Having a comfortable pair that fits can make a difference in a child’s confidence and experience at school.
“It can change their whole outlook on the day,” Minix said. “It makes them proud to walk down the hallway.”
Minix said the project is another example of community partners stepping up to meet needs at local schools.
The Rotary Club’s annual effort continues to provide students with more than new footwear, helping them feel supported by their community.
