At House of Ruth, we believe in the transformative power of community support, and we recently had the privilege of experiencing this firsthand through an incredible collaboration with It’s From The Sole and Kinnect Foundation (KITH). Together, we provided over 100 brand-new HOKA shoes to the extraordinary women participating in our housing programs.
This special event was much more than a shoe distribution—it was a premium shoe experience tailored to meet the unique needs of each woman. Our participants received personalized fittings to ensure they walked away with the perfect size, accompanied by new pairs of socks. With sizes ranging from women’s 3 to 14, every woman was represented, seen, and cared for. For many, this was their first pair of reliable, high-performing shoes—a gift that offers both comfort and confidence.
The joy and gratitude were palpable as our participants tried on their new shoes. Each pair symbolizing a step towards independence and stability. High-quality footwear is often taken for granted, but for those we serve, it is a transformative gift that can significantly enhance daily life, whether it’s for work, exercise, or simply walking without pain.
The success of this event underscores the remarkable power of community partnerships and the profound impact of in-kind support. Contributions like these are vital in helping us meet immediate needs and provide essential resources for our participants on their journey to a better life.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Andre McDonnell, Founder of It’s From the Sole; Francess Henry, Senior Coordinator for KITH; and Sharifa Murdock, Kith Chief Impact Officer for their generous collaboration and support.
As we continue our work at House of Ruth, we are inspired by the generosity and compassion of our community partners. Together, we are making strides towards a brighter, more hopeful future for women, children, and families in need.
Click here to watch our NBC4 story about the sneaker store experience.
