Community Rallies to Provide 120 Pairs of Shoes for Students in Need on National Make a Difference Day

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Community Comes Together for Young Students

On a sunny Saturday, North Charleston came alive with the spirit of giving as Molina Healthcare of South Carolina joined forces with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry (BBBSL) and the Charleston County School District’s McKinney-Vento program. Together, they provided a wonderfully generous gift of 120 pairs of new shoes and socks to second and third-grade students at Chicora Elementary School. This generous effort was part of National Make a Difference Day, which is recognized as the largest day of community service across the nation.

In Charleston County, a staggering 46.2% of students are living below the poverty line, making the need for essential items like shoes all the more pressing. For many of these children, the reality is even tougher as some are homeless and rely on the McKinney-Vento support services offered by the district. “No child should face a day at school without adequate and clean footwear,” emphasized Dora Wilson, plan president for Molina Healthcare of South Carolina. Her words echoed the caring sentiment that brought people together this wonderful day.

Making a Lasting Impact

Principal of Chicora Elementary, Monica Smalls, also shared her thoughts, saying, “Recognizing the needs of our students makes a lasting impact and can be life-changing for many.” It’s clear that Molina Healthcare is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of these children, ensuring they can attend school feeling confident and ready to learn.

The event didn’t just stop at providing shoes. Representatives from BBBSL were also on-site to chat with parents and caregivers. They shared the important work they do in fostering youth mentoring programs that aim to help young people build stronger relationships, gain self-confidence, and make healthier lifestyle choices. This collaboration is about more than just a single day; it’s about creating a lasting support network for local youth.

Words of Gratitude

BBBSL CEO Merridith Crowe expressed her excitement about the partnership. “We are delighted to partner with Molina Healthcare and Chicora Elementary for ‘Make a Difference Day.” She noted how every child deserves a solid team of adults backing them. This support can help children realize their innate greatness and foster a belief that they matter, they belong, and they can dream big.

Molina Healthcare has been actively serving communities in South Carolina since 2013, focusing on providing essential health services through various programs including Medicaid and Marketplace initiatives. Their commitment to the community is commendable, and working with BBBSL is a perfect alignment to help young members of the Lowcountry thrive.

A Bright Future Ahead

As we reflect on this feel-good event, it’s evident that partnerships like this hold the key to brighter futures for our children. When organizations and communities come together, they possess the power to uplift not just a few, but entire neighborhoods. Providing children with the essentials, like shoes, and supporting them with mentorship truly embodies the saying of making a difference.

To learn more about Molina Healthcare’s services or the youth mentoring opportunities provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry, be sure to check their websites. Together, we can continue to make a difference for our kids and build a community that’s supportive and thriving.