The New Life in Christ Church ‘Community Angel Tree’ initiative has donated more than 500 pairs of new tennis shoes to students in O’Fallon School District 90 during the holiday season.
In this season of giving, we truly appreciate the generosity of New Life in Christ Church members. The Angel Tree Community Shoe Drive brings so many smiles to children, and support to their families,” said Carrie Hruby, O’Fallon District 90 superintendent.
In 2023, church members purchased gifts for students attending Laverna Evans Elementary School in O’Fallon. This year, the holiday giving effort was extended to include students at the district’s five elementary and two junior high schools who participate in the free and reduced lunch program.
“In this season of giving, we truly appreciate the generosity of New Life in Christ Church members. The Angel Tree Community Shoe Drive brings so many smiles to children, and support to their families,” said Carrie Hruby, O’Fallon District 90 superintendent.
Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr., New Life senior pastor, calls the initiative “very special for New Life in Christ.”
“When it’s hard to make ends meet, the pressure of buying gifts, especially this time of year for children, can be very stressful for parents,” said Dudley.
In addition to the shoe donation, New Life partnered with Project Compassion NFP of Belleville to provide vouchers for parents to shop for Christmas toys.
The gift-wrapped shoes were delivered to all District 90 schools the week of Dec. 15, 2024.