From the Ground Up: How We Helped Chicago Students Step Into the School Year

At 1st annual back-to-school event, we carefully planned how every pair of shoes would reach the students who needed them most. With this in mind, it was no better time to launch our S.H.O.E.S. on the Ground Initiative and with several hands on deck and the incredible support of a partnerd representative, we assembled and distributed shoes directly to children at O’Keeffe School of Excellence on Chicago’s South Side.

This moment was especially significant. Many of the students we served are facing challenges like poverty, homelessness, or other disadvantages within our city. Providing something as simple as a pair of new shoes gave them more than comfort. It gave them dignity and confidence as they stepped into the school year.

Even more meaningful was the fact that this was the very first event of The Georgia Mae Lucius Foundation, and it took place right in the founder’s own neighborhood where the journey began. What started as an idea has now become action, and this is only the beginning of what is possible.