More than 1,000 people from across Oakland County gathered Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, for a back-to-school shoe giveaway hosted by Micah 6, a Pontiac-based nonprofit focused on addressing systemic poverty through neighborhood engagement.
Now in its 10th year, the annual event began as a backpack and school supply distribution and has grown into a vital resource for families preparing for the school year. This year, Micah 6 gave away 1,200 pairs of shoes — up from 750 last year — thanks to a grant from the DTE Foundation.
To ensure a comfortable and personalized experience, families scheduled 30-minute appointments, allowing each child to receive shoes that fit well and meet their individual needs.
“This event is about more than shoes,” said Coleman Yoakum, executive director of Micah 6. “It’s about helping kids walk into the school year with confidence and dignity. We want every child to know they belong and that their community is behind them.”
The shoe giveaway reflects Micah 6’s mission to uplift the community through practical support and youth-focused outreach. With the DTE Foundation’s partnership, the event continues to grow in scale and impact.
“At the DTE Foundation, we believe in removing barriers to opportunity,” said Rodney Cole, president of the DTE Foundation. “Supporting Micah 6 means investing in the future of Pontiac’s youth and helping families start the school year with one less worry.”
The day was filled with smiles, new shoes and a strong sense of community — proof that when neighbors come together, they can make a lasting difference.
