Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), renowned for its luxury vehicles, has once again demonstrated its commitment to community welfare through its Season to Shine holiday program. This year, MBUSA partnered with Shoes That Fit, a national non-profit organization, to donate brand new athletic shoes to children across the United States. This initiative ensures that children can attend school with dignity, joy, and the confidence that comes with having proper footwear. The program reached new heights this year with the enthusiastic support of brand ambassador and acclaimed artist, Ludacris, and his foundation.
The Season to Shine program is a key component of MBUSA’s broader corporate social responsibility initiative, Driving Your Future. This program is dedicated to empowering the next generation through crucial support for educational programs, career readiness initiatives, and child safety advancements. By focusing on these pillars, Mercedes-Benz aims to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of young people and the communities they live in.
“Donating sneakers to students across the nation through our partnership with Shoes That Fit is a significant step in our commitment to ensuring children feel confident and prepared to learn, play, and ultimately succeed,” stated Dimitris Psillakis, president and CEO of MBUSA. “We firmly believe in nurturing the potential of the next generation and making meaningful contributions to our communities and beyond. This initiative embodies that belief in a tangible way.”
This year’s Season to Shine program saw MBUSA donate an impressive 1,270 pairs of new shoes directly to students at partner schools in Atlanta: Michael R. Hollis Innovation Academy and Leonora P. Miles Intermediate Elementary. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Ludacris joined MBUSA employee volunteers in Atlanta to personally deliver the donated shoes, bringing holiday cheer and excitement to the students.
“It’s always a privilege to give back to the kids in Atlanta, my hometown, and I was honored to collaborate with Mercedes-Benz for their Season to Shine event,” said Ludacris. “These new shoes are more than just footwear; they are a symbol of opportunity and a step towards empowering these students to pursue their dreams and realize their full potential. I am proud to be a part of such a meaningful initiative.”
MBUSA extended the reach of the Season to Shine program nationwide by encouraging its employees to participate through direct donations of new shoes to Shoes That Fit. These employee contributions will further benefit children in local communities throughout the country, amplifying the program’s overall impact.
The impact of new shoes extends beyond mere comfort. As Thalise Perry, Principal at Miles Intermediate Elementary School, noted, “Starting the holiday season with a brand-new pair of shoes gives our students a vital boost of confidence as they continue the school year. We are incredibly thankful to Mercedes-Benz for their generosity and for bringing so much holiday joy to our school community.”
Shoes That Fit has been dedicated to this cause since 1992, providing over 2 million pairs of brand-new shoes and other essential items to children across the United States. The organization’s long-term efforts have yielded remarkable results, with 62% of schools reporting improved student behavior and 87% noting enhanced student self-esteem directly linked to their work.
“For a child, shoes are fundamental. Many families face difficult choices, often having to prioritize necessities like rent and food over shoes. This can leave children with ill-fitting, embarrassing footwear, causing them to miss out on physical activities and even school. New shoes address a basic need and create a lasting positive impact,” explained Amy Fass, CEO and Executive Director of Shoes That Fit. “We are deeply grateful to Mercedes-Benz for recognizing this fundamental need and for making such a significant difference in the lives of 1,270 children through this generous donation.”
For those interested in learning more about Mercedes-Benz USA’s commitment to its communities, please visit https://www.mbusa.com/en/about-us#corporate-social-responsibility. Further information about Shoes That Fit and their impactful work can be found at www.shoesthatfit.org.
