Land O' Lakes and Lutz families looking to help local students who need new footwear can drop off donations at nearby government offices through Friday, Oct. 16, as part of Pasco County's 11th annual Two Good Soles Shoes & Socks Drive.

The campaign collects new shoes and socks at Pasco County government buildings countywide, then school social workers distribute the items directly to students in need. Since launching in 2016, the drive has collected more than 24,000 pairs of shoes and 58,000 pairs of socks, according to the Pasco County government website.

The need is real. Organizers say adult-size athletic shoes in sizes 10 through 13 are in especially short supply this year.

"This effort continues to show the incredible generosity of our community," Pasco County Commission Chair Jack Mariano said. "Together, we're helping students start the school year with confidence and support."

Nicole O'Neill, a support services specialist with Pasco County government, told Tampa Bay 28 on July 31 that the county has received letters and testimonies from students and social workers over the years describing how new footwear changes students' lives.

How to donate

Residents can drop off new shoes and socks at collection boxes inside Pasco County government buildings, including the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller, Property Appraiser and Tax Collector offices. A full list of drop-off locations is available on the county's Two Good Soles page.

Organizers are asking for:

  • Children's shoes in all sizes
  • Adult athletic shoes in sizes 10 through 13 (greatest need)
  • Socks in all sizes, neutral colors
  • Closed-toe shoes only (no flip-flops)

5K run adds new way to give

For the first time, the campaign is hosting a Two Good Soles 5K on Saturday, Sept. 12 at Sunwest Park in Hudson. Participants are encouraged to bring new shoes or socks. Registration is available on the county's event page.

As we reported Aug. 5, AdventHealth and Life Church also recently distributed 450 pairs of shoes to nearly 1,000 Pasco kids, reflecting broader community efforts to address back-to-school costs for local families.

Community calendar

  • Through Oct. 16: Two Good Soles Shoes & Socks Drive at Pasco County government offices countywide
  • Sept. 12: Two Good Soles 5K, Sunwest Park, Hudson