Shoes That Fit charity receives donation from area women’s group

Members of 100 Women Who Care Southern Delaware presented a donation of $5,950 to the Shoes That Fit Delaware Chapter during their quarterly meeting Sept. 27.

A nonprofit agency, Shoes That Fit received this special award as part of the $12,450 that was raised from members last quarter and a $5,000 matching grant from Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, based in Minnesota. The foundation has been a valued partner and supporter of 100WWCSD since March 2022, offering up to a 50% match for funds raised for eligible charities.

Shoes That Fit is a national organization with a mission of tackling one of the most visible signs of poverty in America by giving children in need new athletic shoes so they can attend school with dignity and joy, prepared to learn, play and thrive. Year after year, surveys of schools whose students benefit confirm the impact this simple gift has on the students, including improved attendance, attitude, behavior, academic performance, social interaction, physical activity, confidence and self-esteem. 

The Delaware Chapter was established 26 years ago and is led by longtime Delaware residents Joanne and John Glauser. Their goal is to ensure that every Delaware student needing new sneakers receives them. The chapter has supported more than 25,000 homeless students in Delaware, establishing strong partnerships with schools throughout the state.

This donation from 100 WWCSD and Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation will support plans to establish the first Student Shoe Bank in Delaware in 2025, providing improved accessibility for schools and local nonprofits to new, brand-name sneakers for students they serve.

“This contribution not only aids us financially but also inspires others to join in our efforts to make a positive impact on the lives of our most vulnerable citizens in Southern Delaware,” said Joanne Glauser.

With membership now at more than 100 women and going for 200, 100WWCSD invites others to join, attend the luncheons, learn about the important work being done by nonprofits in Southern Delaware communities, and be part of increasing their impact. For more information, go to Facebook for 100 Women Who Care Southern Delaware or email 100womencaresd@gmail.com.