For the third year, UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge has partnered with Athletics for Education & Success for the Back to School New Shoes Program. In the past two years, UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge has donated nearly 300 pairs of shoes for middle school students who qualify for free and reduced price lunch in the Fort Dodge area.

This school year, they’re looking to provide shoes to 175 qualifying sixth graders at the Fort Dodge Middle School.

“We know how important having a good pair of shoes is for the first day of school,” said Leah Glasgo, president of UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge. “Whether it is for running in PE or the social stigmas associated with having new shoes, we know kids feel better when they start the school year with a new pair of kicks. This is why we do this shoe drive. How you look and how you feel are so connected. Our hope is we can boost kids’ confidence so they can do their best in school.”

Last year, UnityPoint — Health employees donated more than 100 pairs of shoes and volunteered when the students picked them up. This year, they’re hoping that the community and area businesses will join in the effort to put new shoes on the feet of needy sixth grade children.

“Middle school can be tough for children,” said Shannon McQuillen, vice president of operations, UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge. “Not only are they transitioning from their elementary school to the middle school, but they’re developing their own sense of style and starting to pay attention to fashion trends. We make this a “shopping” experience for the participating students. There are several options available in each size shoe, so each student can pick shoes they will be proud to wear on the first day of school.”

UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge has created anonymous tags for each student, similar to The Giving Tree, which includes the size and gender specified for each student. They are asking for new, name brand athletic shoes only. If a community member or business is interested in providing a pair of shoes for a child, call Molly Hiveley at 515-574-6514 and a tag will be provided. If a community member or business would prefer to give a cash gift for shoes, a check can be written to AFES with Back to School New Shoes Program in the memo line.

Checks can be sent to AFES at 712 Third St. N.W., Fort Dodge, IA 50501.