Shoe Distribution Helps Children "Step Forward" with Confidence

A new pair of shoes might not seem like a big deal - until you see the way a child lights up when they put them on. That’s what we witnessed recently when, in partnership with GEICO, Shoes That Fit, the National Urban League, and the Urban League of Greater Cleveland, we provided brand-new shoes to more than 450 children right here in our community.

At Step Forward, our mission through Head Start and Early Head Start is to help children and families prepare for school and for life, and that means meeting needs that go far beyond the classroom. When children don’t have shoes that fit, or when they’re embarrassed about what they’re wearing, it doesn’t just affect their comfort. It affects their confidence, their focus, their sense of belonging. But when a child laces up a brand-new pair of sneakers, everything changes. They stand a little taller. They move a little faster. They walk into school feeling like they belong there.

“There’s nothing like seeing a child’s face light up with pride over something as simple - but meaningful - as a new pair of shoes,” said Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm, Step Forward’s President and CEO. “We’re deeply thankful to Shoes That Fit, the Urban League of Greater Cleveland, the National Urban League, and GEICO for giving our Head Start children not just new shoes, but the confidence and opportunity to step into the school year ready to learn and grow.”

Research backs that up: After receiving new shoes, 91% of educators observed improved self-esteem, and 96% saw greater confidence, according to Shoes That Fit.

That’s what made this shoe distribution so powerful. It wasn’t just about footwear. It was about giving kids what they need to feel ready, respected, and supported. It was about showing families that we see them, we care about them, and we’re in this together. That kind of support doesn’t just prepare children for school; it helps lay the foundation for a future full of possibility.

We’re grateful to our partners for making this possible. And we’re proud to keep doing what Step Forward does best: meeting families where they are, removing barriers, and helping every child take their next big step - literally and figuratively - with confidence.