JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – More than 1,000 pairs of shoes were donated just in time for the start of the school year as part of the News4Jax Kids for the Kids campaign -- more than doubling the total for 2014.
For the last several weeks, people in the area have donated 1,088 new shoes to help out children in need.
Kids who got their new kicks had smiles on their faces at Charles Boobie Clark on the Northside.
"I like pink and purple. I found some Adidas and I like them. I can't wait to wear them," Destiny Phillips, eighth-grader said.
The girls seemed to be excited about the colors.
"It feels good and the colors, purple, orange, white and black. I like the purple because it stands out," Unique Patterson, eighth-grader said.
And some of the guys seemed to be excited about the brand.
"I've never had a pair of Nike's. Usually Adidas or something less," Ishmael Sanders said.
Having a new pair of shoes is something many people take for granted, but not some of the people at the Kicks for Kids event.
"We came last year. It was a good experience, so we came again this year," Nakia Hinton, parent said.
Organizers came to help out. They made sure the Kicks for the Kids fit just right.
"It feels good, especially when you see a smile on their face," said high school volunteer Tyriek Railey.
Tan Mayhew has been organizing the event the last five years.
She says the goal was to collect 500 shoes. The community donated double that amount.
"We will at least be able to help 1,000 students go back to school with dignity. They will have a pair of shoes that fit. Just simply knowing that someone cares enough to invest in giving a free pair of shoes," said Tan Mayhew, event organizer.
Just over 800 children received a new pair of shoes at Kicks for the Kids.
Organizers said this year's event was so successful they hope to increase the goal for next year.