- April 19, 2024
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Matthew Monroe, a sixth grader at Ormond Beach Middle School, realized at a young age just how good it feels to help others.
Inspired by a friend in Atlanta who collected toys for the Ronald McDonald House, Monroe asked his friends to bring cat or dog food donations instead of birthday presents to his birthday party. He gave the food to a pet pantry to help owners keep their pets in tough economic times. He was turning just 5 years old.
A Sunday school in Atlanta introduced Matthew to the Soles4Souls organization. He and his classmates brought shoes to help people in need around the world. When he was planning his 6th birthday party, he was inspired to continue helping Soles4Souls.
In the years since he has sent more than 4,000 pairs of shoes to this non-profit group to help people.
“It doesn’t cost a thing to help someone else," Monroe said. "Just giving someone shoes can really make a difference.”
At 12 years old, his shoe drive is now in its 7th year and is bigger than ever. Schools and businesses in Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach have collection bins to make donating easy for everyone. Even his dentist and orthodontist have joined the cause.
This year, he's asking for community support to collect even more shoes.
You can help others this holiday season simply by cleaning out your closets. Bag up new and gently used shoes and bring to a collection site. Men’s, women’s, and kids’ shoes of all kinds are appreciated.
Drop-off sites include:
If you would like the shoes picked up instead or if your business would like to become a donation location, call Call Cynthia Petrie Monroe at 678-525- 3160.
