Bloomsburg Area elementary schools step up for global impact with shoe drive

Beaver-Main Elementary students Willow, Sayde, Sabastian, Ethan, Gannon, Nolan, John, Dana, Austin, Mikey, Anthony, Cheyenne, Reagan, Grace, Harlow and Natalee

Two Bloomsburg elementary schools have proven that small acts of kindness can create a worldwide impact. Throughout February, students at W.W. Evans and Beaver-Main Elementary Schools partnered with Aunt Abby’s Shoe Mission to support Soles4Souls, a nonprofit organization that distributes shoes to those in need across the U.S. and around the world.

With the help of students, families and staff, the schools collected an astounding 2,227 pairs of shoes — 1,470 from W.W. Evans and 757 from Beaver-Main. The effort not only cleared out closets but also provided much-needed footwear to people facing economic hardship.

“This project was more than just a lesson in giving back,” said an organizer. “It showed our students how a simple donation can create a ripple effect of positive change.”

Students were encouraged to donate new or gently used shoes, with a friendly competition among classrooms to boost participation. The class that collected the most shoes was awarded a pizza party, but the real reward was knowing their generosity would help others.

Soles4Souls operates on the belief that a pair of shoes can provide dignity, opportunity and protection. Through donations like these, the organization helps people in need while also supporting sustainability by keeping shoes out of landfills.

The success of the drive highlights the power of community generosity and student leadership, proving that even the smallest shoes can make a big difference.