Rowland Water District donated $1,173 to a charitable group to provide shoes for students in need as they head back to school.
The “RWD — Our Community, Our Family” program awarded the money, which was raised through a staff “penny competition,” to Claremont-based Shoes That Fit.
“As essential service providers, we are dedicated to helping our community and recently created the `RWD — Our Community, Our Family’ charitable program to give back to our neighbors,” RWD General Manger Tom Coleman said in a statement. “As we kick off this mission with our first donation, our employees recognized how Shoes That Fit makes a real difference helping children so they can focus on their education instead of being distracted by such a basic need.”
The demand for shoes, clothes and school supplies increases at the start of the school year, and has been exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Amy Fass, CEO and executive director of Shoes That Fit, said, “Shoes are one of the most visible signs of poverty and old shoes that don’t fit can be a sources of ridicule and bullying. Donations like this will provide new athletic shoes to help children start school with dignity and joy, while improving their attendance, self-esteem and physical activity.”
The “RWD — Our Community, Our Family” program provides district staff with donation and volunteer opportunities that give back to their communities.