It's an essential part of the new school year.
"I'm gonna feel so happy so that my friends can see them," said nine year-old Caleb Ramirez.
Of course you need the books and pencils- but a new pair of shoes may be just as important.
"It makes a big difference to them you know, it just makes them happy," said Pam Redman, a member of the Abilene Assoc.of Realtors.
So when Coley Grayson heard of the opportunity to get a brand new pair of shoes- he made sure to take advantage of the opportunity.
"This is the first time that i actually get to wear Jordans," he said.
In fact over 800 other kids from around Taylor Co. came to the walk with pride shoe drive.
It's sponsored by the Abilene Assoc. of Realtors and the salvation army who have saved up all year to purchase the shoes from Payless.
About 150 more kids from around Taylor Co. have signed up this year, but that hasn't stopped the association from making sure that each and every one of them has a new pair of shoes.
"Some of us cant afford to get shoes and it makes the kids feel good knowing that they can get something new," said Misty Hoover, who brought her two kids.
Kids like Caleb Ramirez were able to browse through the many shoes and face the ultimate dilemma- choosing the perfect pair- but Ramirez had it down.
"Do eeny, meeny, miney, moe," he said.
Single mom Lesley Poe was glad she didn't have to disappoint her kids.
"You look into their faces and its hard when you have to tell them I can't do it right now," said Poe.
Now she can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing her kids are ready for school from head to toe.
"It's just relief to say that you know even if not by my direct doing that they're still happy and it makes me happy," said Poe.
The association has teamed up with the salvation army for the past 25 years.
They'll be hosting another shoe drive Thurs., Aug. 16 at the Payless inside the Mall of Abilene.
