MARCH 20, 2025 - There’s nothing like a new pair of shoes to make you feel better. That is what Just a Pair of Shoes non-profit founder Matt Cline believes.
He said, “In 2008 I received my first pair of Nike shoes, and my life started to change. It may have just been a pair of shoes, but for me, it was a huge confidence booster and a much-needed gift for my self-esteem. I no longer walked with my head down when I went through the hallways. I made more friends and participated more in the classroom. I felt like I could do anything with my Nike shoes on my feet.”
Today, he rolled out the red carpet and told his story to some students from Schnell and Russell. He even brought the pair of shoes he managed to buy for himself when he was in Middle School. He also brought a lot of shoes to pass out to students! Thanks to a donation from the Nick and Edna Weller Charities, students who were nominated received shoes and socks at no cost.
Before receiving shoes, students promised 1) to be a good student; 2) to be a good kid at home; and 3) to be a good friend. High School students were present to provide encouragement and help each child put on their new shoes.
Thank you to Matt Cline and all of the volunteers who came out today to put smiles on the faces of our students! Find out more about Just a Pair of Shoes at https://www.justapairofshoes.org/