More than 300 students at J.L. Jones Elementary School received new shoes Thursday morning during a giveaway organized by Operation Warm in partnership with Diversified Energy.
The event provided over 315 pairs of shoes, along with socks, shoelaces, and small gifts for children in the school’s second and third grades. Students had their feet measured, chose their favorite color, and tried on shoes before taking home their new pair. Each child also signed a thank-you banner after completing the process.
“It is due to great partnerships like the one with Diversified Energy that we are able to provide brand-new coats, brand-new shoes, and brand-new sports bras to under-resourced children across the states and Canada,” said Jean Barnette, an organizer with Operation Warm. She added that Diversified Energy has supported the program for several years. “Because of your generosity, and because of your teammates across the county, you guys have gifted almost 13,000 coats and pairs of shoes to children.”
Diversified Energy employees volunteered alongside Operation Warm staff during the giveaway. This marks the company’s fifth year partnering with the nonprofit. Superintendent Rowland also attended the event.
Principal Friday said the day was a special one for students. “We are super excited about this experience for our kiddos,” she said. “Thank you so much for selecting our school.”
Operation Warm is a national nonprofit that partners with businesses and organizations to provide new clothing and other essentials to underserved children. Founded more than 24 years ago, the group works to connect families with community resources while promoting equitable access to basic needs.
