Happy Feet

Nurturing Little Feet

Happy Feet

Children's legs and feet dangling from playground equipment - all with sneakers and shoes. Legs of little friends sitting on swing or other recreational facility.

Happy Feet, a UWRC initiative launched in 2019, provides much-needed shoes to children in need. In the 2023/24 period, 101 pairs of shoes were given to Rutland students, serving 17 Rutland schools. Over the past few years, this initiative has made a remarkable impact, and we’re excited to continue nurturing the little feet that depend on us!

This program was born from the realization that local teachers and nurses were purchasing shoes for kids who couldn’t afford them. At United Way of Rutland County, we believe families, educators, and healthcare professionals should never have to worry about providing shoes for young ones.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to the community for their unwavering support of this incredible program. A big shoutout to our Happy Feet sponsors!

Carl Durfee's Store logo
Sensible Shoes logo

Here’s what the kids had to say!

"Do I have to return these shoes after today?"

"I have never had my foot measured, I finally get real sneakers for school."

"I love my new shoes!!!"

"These fit so good, my old ones were so tight.”

"I can go sledding now!"

 

Are you in need of the benefits this program provides? If you are, please connect with your student’s Rutland County school nurse and/or teacher, or give us a call at (802) 773-7477.

 

Animated image of happy mixed race children jumping and showing excitement.