Shoe Collection Drives
Neighbors, schools, and workplaces host drives to gather brand-new shoes in every size. Local retailers pitch in, too.
About Sole Purpose
Neighbors making sure every kid shows up ready.
Sole Purpose started in 2017 when two San Diego teachers saw students missing class because their shoes didn't fit anymore. That turned into a crew of volunteers running pop-up shoe closets at schools and community centers across the county.
When a school counselor or teacher spots a kid who needs shoes, they reach out. We put together packages with the right size, plus socks and a note. Families pick the colors and styles, so every kid gets something they're excited to wear.
Each delivery helps a kid show up, play safely, and know their community has their back.
How We Help
Your generosity gets to work fast.
Every dollar goes straight to shoes, socks, and the volunteers who deliver them with care and respect.
School Partnerships
Teachers and counselors tell us when a student needs shoes. We make sure the fit, style, and function match what that kid needs.
Direct Family Support
Volunteers hand-deliver shoe bundles with notes and info about other local resources. We move as fast as our shelves and schedules allow.
Over 1,200 pairs and 2,500 socks delivered across San Diego in the last 12 months.
Donate
Your gift keeps kids moving with confidence.
Thirty dollars puts a kid in brand-new shoes, fresh socks, and a handwritten note. We work with local vendors to stretch every dollar as far as it goes.
We use PayPal Giving Fund for secure online donations. They send you a tax receipt right away and pass 100% to us with no fees.
Your support keeps our closet stocked so we can say yes when a school calls about a kid who needs shoes today.
- Every dollar goes to shoes, socks, and delivery.
- Monthly donors help us respond to urgent requests fast.
- Businesses can sponsor drives at a school or shelter.
- Tax-deductible. EIN 82-1426048 • 501(c)(3) since June 2017.
Prefer to give shoes directly? Request drop-off details.