Frequently Asked Questions
What is foster care?
Foster care is a temporary living situation for kids when they are removed from their biological parents. This can happen due to abuse, unsafe environment, death of birth parents, or voluntary placement.
How many kids are in foster care?
As of 2023, there are about 10,000 children in foster care in Arizona and over 300,000 in the US.
Why tennis shoes?
It’s a sad reality that many children in foster care don’t have shoes that fit them properly. Furthermore, some foster families struggle to afford new shoes for their foster kids. When we provide these children with new shoes, we not only help them but also relieve some of the stress that their foster parents might be experiencing while caring for them.
How do you find the kids that need shoes?
We work closely with the Arizona Department of Child Safety and other local foster care agencies. They email us the child’s first name, age, shoe size, and any shoe preferences.
Why brand-new name-brand tennis shoes?
For a lot of these kids, getting a pair of new shoes is a first-time experience. The stories we’ve heard about their reactions are incredible. It’s heartwarming to see how surprised and grateful they are when they receive their requested shoes.
What if you can’t find the exact shoe the child wants?
If we are unable to find the desired shoe, we will search for the closest alternative and include a note to ensure the child feels heard.