September 29, 2023

Every student deserves to have a good pair of shoes.

One local shoe store is doing their part to make that a reality. On a brisk Tuesday morning this week, Brian Danner — Owner & Manager of Tradehome Shoes Grand Island — unloaded 48 boxes of fresh sneakers at Gates Elementary School. 

“It’s our goal to help make sure kids have what they need when they come to school.” Danner said, “Shoes make a big difference.”

The generous gesture from Tradehome Shoes is becoming an annual tradition. For three straight years now Danner has provided shoe donations to area schools; specifically for students in need.

Last year was Lincoln Elementary.  This year, the Gates Gators.

How does Danner decide which school gets fresh shoes?  Well, he doesn’t — the community does.

Each year Danner puts out a call for school nominations from the community. The list of nominated schools is published on the Tradehome Shoes website and Grand Island area folks vote for the school they would like to see receive the gift. 

For Gates Elementary, the shoes are a welcome resource.

“It’s really cool to see our community share support for us at Gates.” Amy Schley, School Counselor at Gates Elementary, shared, “This helps us take care of our kids. It’s amazing!”

Making a practical, positive impact in the community found Tradehome Shoes adding another simple but valuable item this year:  socks. Danner has provided sock donations to four area schools in 2023 giving out hundreds of pairs so far. 

“Whichever city Tradehome Shoes is in — we do it locally.” Danner confirmed, “We want to provide socks and shoes to our own schools. It’s all about giving back to the community.” 

Students in the Gates character Council even got to help unload the boxes and join the excitement! Seeing the smiling faces of the students at the schools affirms the efforts for Danner. Which is why Tradehome Shoes looks to continue the annual donations every year. 

For Gates Elementary, they will hold onto the 48 pairs of shoes and hand them out throughout the year to students who need them. Having that extra shoe security for students will go a long way for Gates Gators continuing to be excited and comfortable coming to school. 

“We are super appreciative for this generous donation for our kiddos!” Amy Schley, School Counselor at Gates Elementary, affirmed, “Many of our kids don’t have a nice pair of shoes. This will help us “spread the wealth” so they can have what they need and feel good about it.”

#WeAreGIPS