An organization that works to build hope one pair of shoes at a time has stepped up for students at Barnardsville Elementary - with a special assist from a Duke basketball player. Last week, Samaritan’s Feet International delivered a pair of new shoes and socks to every student in the school.
Duke University shooting guard Sion James teamed up with Samaritan’s Feet, trading center court for center stage to get the ball rolling.
“Sion wanted to use his platform during the Final Four to raise money for the hurricane victims in North Carolina who are still struggling from the devastating floods,” said Kathy Slyder of Samaritan’s Feet. “We held a special event in Charlotte with many Duke Alumni and other guests who attended and heard Sion speak. Because of those efforts, he raised enough money to support three elementary schools in the area, the first of which was Barnardsville Elementary.”
Working with principal Brian Chandler, counselor Bronte Honeycutt, the Buncombe County Schools Foundation, and the BCS Student Services team, each student received shoes that fit perfectly.
“The shoe distribution event at Barnardsville was absolutely amazing! Both the children and staff were incredibly thankful for the shoes. I really enjoyed collaborating with all the volunteers. We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership with Samaritan’s Feet International,” said Debbie DeVane, BCS Student Services Specialist.
Shoe delivery day was filled with joy for all.
“The children and staff at Barnardsville Elementary are incredible,” Ms. Slyder added. “They were all so kind and appreciative of the gift and we were so blessed to have the opportunity to give back through the generosity of Sion James and his desire to serve communities in need.”
The school community was very grateful for the generosity of Samaritan's Feet International.
“People continue to show up in incredible ways to support the students and families of Barnardsville Elementary,” said Holly Houchard, Assistant Director of BCS Student Services. She was serving as the Barnardsville Elementary Principal when Hurricane Helene hit, and helped turn the school into a supply distribution center in the weeks that followed. “This tight-knit community is always quick to lend a hand to those in need, and it's truly heartwarming to see that kindness returned as they face the challenges brought on by Hurricane Helene.”