Story provided by Stillwater Public Schools

Stillwater Public Schools, Grand Lake Mental Health Center, and The Salvation Army are collaborating with other local organizations to coordinate a shoe drive to benefit the Stillwater community. The 2021 Stillwater Sneaker Drive runs from September 12-18.

“Right now everyone is struggling with donations, especially shoes for some reason,” says SPS Social Worker Diana Nolan. “We rely on partnerships with local organizations, like the Salvation Army, to make sure students and their families have the basic necessities they need.”

The drive is seeking tennis shoes of all sizes. All donations will be distributed and shared between Stillwater Public Schools, Grand Lakes Mental Health, and the Salvation Army.

Shoe donations can be dropped off at Stillwater High School, Lincoln Academy, Westwood and Will Rogers Elementary Schools, Grand Lake Mental Health Center, Shoe Sensation, The Salvation Army, City of Stillwater, Exchange Bank’s Stillwater locations, and Payne County Youth Services. Monetary donations may also be made by check delivered to the SPS Administration Building.

Nolan hopes those making donations will shop locally. “Communities are struggling all over right now, and I hope that, while supporting those in need, our community will also support local businesses.” Some local shoe stores are offering discounts during the drive, she says.

Donations received by Friday, September 17 will be collected by volunteers and loaded onto a school bus at the intersection of Hall of Fame and Perkins Road. 

“We want to fill that bus,” says Nolan. “We have a very caring community, and I can’t wait to see it packed with generosity.” 

For more information about the 2021 Stillwater Sneaker Drive, contact Diana Nolan at 580-747-3686 or Debra Thompson with Grand Lake Mental Health Center at 918-935-7168.