A Note from H.U.G.S.' Founder

My name is Olivia and I have always loved helping others! I have been volunteering since I was 7 years old for organizations I love, like the Ronald McDonald House, The Nashville Zoo, Children's Hope International, Operation Christmas Child and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society!

I found that there aren't many that many opportunities out there for a young girl my age to volunteer, and had it was laid on my heart to do something for the children in the Appalachian Mountains: children just like me! My daddy and I came up with H.U.G.S., meaning HELP US GIVE SHOES! I asked my Missions Director at church to help me start a collection and, with the help of my friends at my church, First Baptist Church in Hendersonville, I was able to collect 670 shoes in just three weeks!!! I also had friends from all over the country donate, too!

These shoes were carried to families in the Appalachian Mountians. on a Mother/Daughter Mission Trip. The families had just lost everything in a flood, so shoes were a big blessing and came just when they needed them.

My first collection has inspired me to do more! I want to get various organizations, friends, schools and churches involved in making a difference. You don't even have to make a trip to Walmart. You simply need to look in your closet, and pull out your gently used shoes. Then, give them to us, and we will make sure they go to children and their families who need them.

This is a great project for children and adults alike to feel the joy of giving and helping others. If you would like to start a collection at your church, please email us, and we will give you information on how to start your own shoe drive! To contact us, please use the "Contact Us" link above.