ROCKWALL, TX (June 9, 2022) — This summer, Rockwall area residents can help local children from low-income families start the next school year off on the right foot through the Christian based community program, Shoes For Kids.
On Saturday, July 30, First United Methodist Church Rockwall – in partnership with area churches and civic organizations – will host a massive distribution event providing shoes, socks, dental hygiene items and school supplies to more than 1,000 kids from Rockwall ISD and Royse City ISD. Eligible students are identified through the RISD and RCISD School Lunch Programs and given vouchers for one pair of shoes.
“When you have done it unto the least of these, my brethren, you have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40
A unified community effort
For the past 18 years, the Shoes For Kids program has eased the financial and emotional burden of underprivileged families by providing their children with new school shoes, supplies, and free immunization vaccines. The program has grown immensely from its humble beginnings of serving 170 kids in its first year to well over 1,000 kids each year since —all thanks to an enormously collaborative effort from the community.
“Once again, we are excited to help parents who want the best for their children but struggle with the financial burden to buy new, name brand shoes at a time when costs are so high. We hope these new shoes, backpacks, and school supplies start the kids on the right foot for a great school year,” said Rev. Sandy Heard, Associate Pastor. “It is such a blessing to the volunteers in this community when we all come together to shoulder the burdens of our neighbors.”
Rockwall County Helping Hands provides the school supplies and backpacks; Blue Cross and Blue Shield gives the free vaccinations; various local civic organizations and churches provide the socks, dental hygiene supplies and other back-to-school items; and Rack Room Shoes provides the program quality shoes at an affordable price. In addition, Texas Health Resources is providing mammograms.
How you can help
The Shoes For Kids distribution event wouldn’t be possible without the financial support from the community. Every dollar donated goes directly to supplying educational items for kids to start each school year on a solid foundation.
To donate to the cause and make a difference, visit fumcrockwall.com/shoesforkids or make checks payable to First United Methodist Church of Rockwall, note Shoes For Kids in the memo, and include the following information: your name, organization, address, email, phone number, and the amount you wish to donate. Click here for volunteer information, or contact Ron Dick at rld825@gmail.com, if you’d like to help outfit these children on July 30 with the tools they need to have a successful school year.
For questions or more information, contact the following individuals:
Ron and Linda Dick, Chairpersons
409-273-0018 | rld825@gmail.com
Rev. Julie Henson, Associate Pastor
972-771-5500 | jhenson@fumcrockwall.com
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