KILLEEN, Texas — A single pair of new shoes can change a student's entire school day — that's why 6 News is using Giving Tuesday to amplify the annual Shoes 4 Kids drive, calling on Central Texas residents to either donate new footwear or contribute funds for local students in need.
The annual Shoes 4 Kids drive, running through Dec. 15, is an initiative by Communities In Schools (CIS) Greater Central Texas that aims to provide footwear to thousands of local students throughout the year.
The organization, which serves over 6,000 students, uses the drive to maintain a year-round supply of new shoes. Site coordinators like David Woodberry and Nancy Rodriguez identify students in need and ensure they receive proper footwear.
"We can't turn away from those children because somebody's got to be there for them," Woodberry said, recalling a time he helped a student with new socks and shoes. "He told everybody in the whole school. I realized later that me doing that made him feel that I cared enough about him."
"The message of success is very important," Rodriguez said. "It's important for children to know that they can be successful in their space."
For site coordinators like Rodriguez, each donation represents more than just footwear — it's a step toward student success.
Financial contributions can be made through the organization's website or PayPal. Those wishing to donate new shoes can drop them off at six locations across Bell County listed below.
- Communities in Schools, 4520 E. Central Texas Expressway, Suite 106, Killeen
- Central Texas College Student Lounge, 6200 W. Central Texas Expressway, Killeen
- Texas A&M Central Texas, 1001 Leadership Place, Killeen
- Carlson Law Firm, 100 E. Central Texas Expressway, Killeen
- Carlson Law Firm, 2010 SW HK Dodgen Loop, Suite 201, Temple
- Salado ISD Admin Building, 601 N. Main St., Salado
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