Pasos for Oak Cliff, a non-profit, is set up by Jesse Acosta, a high school teacher, and Alejandra Zendejas, a math tutor. We both consider ourselves sneakerheads.
As sneakerhead educators and members of the community, we are fully aware that parents and guardians struggle to supply some basic necessities for their children - this is especially true when it comes to shoes.
As a result, we decided to turn our LOVE for sneakers into a proactive start up - Pasos for Oak Cliff. The goal of Pasos for Oak Cliff is to give students new shoes. The lack of good quality shoes leads to discomfort, ridicule, bullying, and isolation. We can prevent that from happening, but we cannot do it alone, we need YOUR SUPPORT.
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SNEAKERS ARE AN OPPORTUNITY
At Pasos for Oak Cliff, we believe that a new pair of shoes is more than just footwear—it's a stepping stone toward self-confidence, belonging, and academic success. For children facing the challenges of financial hardship or homelessness, worn-out shoes can be a daily reminder of their struggles, often leading to bullying, isolation, and diminished self-worth.
Our Sneaker Drive is dedicated to changing that narrative.
Of guardians reported an
increase of confidence in
shoe recipients
Of guardians reported that
their child wanted to go back to
school after receiving new shoes
of children loved their
new stylish shoes
EMPOWERING CHILDREN,
ONE STEP AT THE TIME
By providing handpicked, stylish shoes, we’re not just giving kids something to wear—we’re helping them walk into their classrooms with pride, ready to learn and grow. Every pair of shoes we distribute is a symbol of hope, a reminder that someone cares, and a tangible boost that can lift a child's spirit and future.
We will not distribute a pair of shoes we would not wear ourselves.
A $30 donation, helps us provide a new pair of shoes to a student in need.
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"You have taken one less stress from me with this help for my kids."
- Single mother of four children
HOW IT WORKS
We team up with schools, homeless shelters, and local nonprofits to reach the students who need us most. Twice a year—right before back-to-school and again during the holiday season—we host major sneaker drives that put fresh kicks on the feet of 500–600 kids each time. That’s over 1,000 pairs of shoes every year, transforming confidence and opening doors for brighter futures.
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We also host smaller drives for individual schools and nonprofits throughout the year.
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Interested in partnering with us? Check out the options below!
OUR SNEAKER FESTIVALS
Twice a year, Pasos for Oak Cliff hosts large-scale Sneaker Festivals to uplift children and families in our community. The Back 2 School Sneaker Festival kicks off every August to prepare students for a strong start to the school year, while Kicks of Kindness in December brings joy and dignity to the holiday season. More than just new sneakers, these festivals connect families facing economic or health challenges with local organizations that provide medical resources, financial guidance, and community opportunities. Together, we’re not only lacing up kids with fresh shoes but also helping families take steps toward stability and self-sufficiency.
PAST PARTNERS
