More than 130 Milan students receive free pair of shoes

Unique initiative began last year

(MILAN, Ind.) – More than 130 Milan students are ending the school year with a brand new pair of shoes. 

The Milan Elementary Shoe Project was created by Principal Travis Rohrig and School Counselor Michelle McKittrick.

The program is for students who are registered in the school’s Weekend Backpack Program, which provides meals on the weekend for kids who face food insecurity. 

Last year, Rohrig called a friend who’s son plays in the NBA and asked if there was any way to get a mass amount of shoes donated. 

It led to a connection with two national organizations, Shoes That Fit and the Fathers & Men of Professional Basketball Players. 

Shoes That Fit is a nonprofit that provides shoes to low-income children. They offer shoes at a discount rate to the school and the Milan American Legion provides the funds to make it possible. 

The first shoe giveaway was held in December 2023 and the second took place this past week. 

“This year, I ordered 141 pairs of shoes for students in grades Preschool through 12th grade. I ordered 9 extra pairs, so that we could keep some extra pairs at school for when needs arise during the school year,” McKittrick said. 

The Milan Legion not only provides funds, but also volunteers to assist the school in making sure each kid gets a pair that fits. 

“This year, we also partnered with The Samaritan's Hope Chest, as they donated enough socks so each student got at least one new pair. It's wonderful and heart-warming to see the community partners support our students of all ages,” McKittrick added.

We stopped by Milan's first-ever shoe giveaway last school year. Watch here: