First Day Shoe Fund distributes brand new athletic shoes through several different events each summer and fall. We hold a large distribution event during the Kalamazoo Public School’s (KPS) summer school session and host a KPS Community Night summer event for qualifying families who do not attend summer school. During the first two months of each new school year, we distribute shoes to qualifying families in all Kalamazoo Public Elementary Schools, as well as all Comstock Public Elementary Schools and Paramount Academy. Throughout the entire school year, we work with the staff at KRESA’s WoodsEdge Learning Center to fit qualifying students of all ages with shoes. First Day Shoe Fund continues to help students in need throughout the school year whenever possible.

• Since our founding in 2006, First Day Shoe Fund has distributed approximately 19,580 shoes to students in Kalamazoo County.

• In 2015, we distributed a record 4,371 pairs of shoes to Kalamazoo Public Schools, Comstock Public Schools, and WoodsEdge Learning Center.

• On average, 70% or more of the students enrolled in the schools we currently serve, qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

• When possible, FDSF also works in conjunction with Project Connect to reach families in Kalamazoo County who are in need, but who may not attend a Kalamazoo or Comstock public school.