A Central Texas man is resolutely continuing his annual back-to-school shoe drive, providing essential footwear to children in need while navigating his own battle with cancer. Marcus Reese, the president of the Best Foot Forward Initiative, has dedicated himself to ensuring that local students have the shoes they require as the school year approaches.
Over the past three years, Reese’s initiative has successfully delivered more than 650 pairs of new shoes, and he is on track to reach 700 donations this year. Families can apply for assistance anonymously by submitting their requests through the initiative’s Facebook page.
The inspiration for the Best Foot Forward Initiative struck Reese after he witnessed a poignant moment at a sporting goods store, where a father and daughter left empty-handed because they could not afford the shoes she desired. This experience served as a wake-up call for Reese, highlighting the financial struggles that many families face when it comes to purchasing school shoes.
Reflecting on his own upbringing, Reese recalls being a child who often lacked access to brand-name shoes. “My family did the best they could do, and I was grateful for it,” he shared. “I always grew up admiring Adidas, Nike, and other popular brands.” This personal history fueled his determination to help others in similar situations.
Applications for free shoes are handled through the initiative’s Facebook page, where families can complete and email their requests. Reese takes it upon himself to shop for the shoes, ensuring a personal touch, and arranges for either pickup or delivery of the footwear. “It’s done all anonymously,” he emphasized, noting that confidentiality is a priority. “We don’t take pictures with the families, and they can either pick it up from my residence or we deliver it to them.”
This year’s drive presents added challenges for Reese, who is currently undergoing treatment following his cancer diagnosis. Despite the difficulties posed by his illness, he remains steadfast in his commitment to assist families before the school year begins. “My treatment has made this year a little bit more of a challenge,” he acknowledged, sharing that sometimes the illness affects his ability to shop for shoes. “I don’t know what I’m going to feel like when I get into a store. Sometimes I get to a store and I have to leave.”
The initiative continues to support families of all sizes, helping those with multiple children who require new shoes. “My job isn’t to really go into the family and understand the dynamics,” Reese explained. “I just really want the kids on their first day to be confident and not be worried about if someone’s looking at their sneakers.”
Recently, Reese received a heartfelt handwritten note from two children who had previously benefitted from the initiative. One of the children, a leukemia survivor, expressed gratitude for the shoes they received, illustrating the profound impact of Reese’s efforts.
Families in need of assistance can apply through the Best Foot Forward Initiative’s Facebook page by completing and emailing an application. There is no limit to the number of children for whom a family can request help.
For those looking to support Reese during his treatment, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover his medical expenses. Additionally, anyone interested in donating or volunteering with the Best Foot Forward Initiative can find more information on the organization’s Facebook page.
