Shoes That Fit Helps Over 185,000 Children Nationwide

LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, October 29, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- National nonprofit Shoes That Fit has celebrated a year of bringing new athletic shoes and confidence to more than 185,000 children across the United States. The organization’s 2025-26 annual report highlights its impact in 1,886 communities nationwide, spanning all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Founded in 1992, Shoes That Fit is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Claremont, California. The organization’s mission is to provide new athletic shoes to children, helping them attend school with dignity and joy, prepared to learn, play, and thrive. Over the past year, the nonprofit has worked closely with school staff to identify students in need, measure their shoe sizes, and ship new, name-brand athletic shoes directly to partner schools for discreet distribution.

The positive impact of this initiative is evident in the school environment. According to the annual report, 90% of educators observed significant improvements in children’s confidence after they received new shoes. Additionally, 89% reported improved self-esteem, 85% noted increased social interaction, and 78% saw greater physical activity among students.

One of the most significant contributions came from Stater Bros. Markets and its customers, who raised $766,469 through an online and in-store campaign. This marked the largest single donation in Shoes That Fit’s history, further expanding the organization’s reach and impact.

Shoes That Fit also hosts special schoolwide distribution events in partnership with donors, community organizations, and volunteers. These celebrations bring the organization’s commitment to dignity and joy to life, with gymnasiums and schoolyards coming alive with music, balloon arches, and applause as students receive their new shoes.

The annual report recognizes the ongoing support from individuals, volunteers, foundations, and corporate partners, including longstanding commitments from Nordstrom and Rack Room Shoes. These partnerships have been crucial in bringing new shoes, confidence, and joy to children nationwide.

Approximately 88% of Shoes That Fit’s total expenditures supported program services during the 2025-26 fiscal year, ensuring that the organization can continue to reach more children and school communities. To learn more about the organization’s work and how to support it, visit Shoes That Fit’s website.