Glow Church’s ‘Sneakers for Students’ gives hundreds of Ralston students new shoes

Glow Church volunteers presented the Sneakers for Students program to the Ralston Public Schools Board of Education, describing how the community-led Midwest Pursuit Project partners with district staff to provide new shoes for students in need. Sue and Matt said the program started in 2021 after a school social worker identified shoes as an unmet need and has since grown through local fundraising and partnerships.

"The real point of this is to just make sure that every student in Ralston School District with a need for a new pair of well fitting shoes receives those shoes," one presenter said. The group reported providing 247 pairs of shoes this year and described recurring fundraisers — trivia nights, a pie-baking contest at the Ralston Independence celebration and restaurant takeovers — that support the effort.

Presenters credited school counselors, including Margie Hernandez, with identifying students who would benefit and noted the program serves all grade levels from preschool through seniors. They also thanked community partners such as Thrivent and local media for in-kind support and exposure. Board members asked about age and size coverage; presenters said shoe sizes are available up to men’s 14.

The presenters said the event is free to families and designed to be a day of community celebration, with volunteer-run activities and services. The board thanked the volunteers and affirmed the district’s appreciation for community partnerships that address basic student needs.

The board did not take formal action on the presentation; it concluded after Q&A and member remarks about community impact.