Brent Hamerlinck from Coal Valley, Illinois, has found a unique way to give back to his community. Through his "Kicks for Kids" initiative, he is using his love for sneakers to provide new and gently used shoes to local children in need. This story showcases the power of one person's passion and how it can make a significant impact on the lives of others.

Sneakers as a Vehicle for Community Impact

How Sneakers Became More Than Footwear

For Brent Hamerlinck, sneakers hold a special place. They are not just an ordinary item of clothing but a passion that led him to take action. In 2023, a visit to a local elementary school opened his eyes to the growing need for essential items among children. He realized that while many foundations and charities focus on clothing, there is a lack of attention given to shoes. This realization sparked the birth of "Kicks for Kids." 2: Brent's journey with sneakers began as a personal interest. He discovered the joy and style that sneakers could bring. But it was this realization that there were children in his community who lacked proper footwear that motivated him to turn his passion into a meaningful initiative.

Collecting Shoes for Local Students

Brent, along with his wife, started collecting new and gently used shoes for local students. This year, their initiative is reaching out to the Rock Island Milan School District, where each school will receive 10 pairs of shoes, totaling 90 pairs. They reach out to the school district and provide them with a list of kids in need and their shoe sizes. 2: The process of collecting shoes involves careful selection to ensure that the footwear is durable and not just a temporary solution. Brent and his wife make sure to find good deals and quality shoes so that the children can get the most out of them. It's about providing shoes that will last and make a real difference in their lives.

The Joy on Children's Faces

One of the most rewarding aspects of the "Kicks for Kids" initiative is seeing the joy on the children's faces when they receive the shoes. Brent recalls a particular incident when they made a drop-off at a school. There was a kindergarten student whose shoes were in poor condition. His soles were almost worn out, and he had nothing to protect his feet. When Brent offered him a new pair of shoes, the look on his face and the smile were priceless. 2: These moments remind Brent why he started the initiative. It's not just about providing shoes but about giving these children a sense of dignity and hope. The impact on a little person's life is immeasurable, and it drives him to continue his work.

Making a Difference in the Community

Last year, "Kicks for Kids" raised $3,300, which provided over 75 new pairs of shoes to the East Moline School District. The initiative also donated over 100 used pairs of shoes to Closet2Closet, a Rock Island nonprofit that helps foster kids. 2: Brent's efforts have not gone unnoticed. His initiative has touched the hearts of many in the community and has inspired others to get involved. Through various drop-off locations and social media, people are coming together to support this important cause.You can help support their mission through the group's Venmo: @Kicksfor-Kids. For more information, you can visit their Facebook page.You can also drop your new or gently used shoes off at the following locations:309 Customs - 4530 River Dr., MolineFehr Orthodontics - 3800 Archer Dr., Ste 200, East MolineTriple E Sales - 1301 Division St., OrionThe Barber Shop - 302 1st Ave, ColonaTwo Men & a Truck - 5000 Tremont Ave, Ste 202, DavenportThe Red Barn - 106 S State St., GeneseoDouglas Machine - 1506 N High St., Port ByronAthletico Physical Therapy - Moline, Rock Island, Silvis, Bettendorf and DavenportLola’s Pet Parlor - 802 N Broadway St., ClevelandCopyright 2024 KWQC. All rights reserved.