By Madelyn Slattery
Frankie Chiaravalle was hoping to make a difference when she started a group devoted to collecting and distributing shoes to those who need them in nearby communities.
Chiaravalle, a junior at Rye High School and a varsity basketball player, said she created the group, calling it Sole Purpose, “because I felt like shoes are something people really need, but don’t always have access to.”
Chiaravalle advertised her effort with a message posted to the Rye Moms Facebook page, focusing on kids’ shoes. “Just one pair can make a big difference,” she wrote.
Both Rye residents and others beyond Rye’s borders heeded the call.
To her surprise, Chiaravalle collected more than 500 pairs of shoes.
“I definitely didn’t expect to get over 500 pairs — it’s been amazing!” she said.
She scrubbed the dust, dirt, and grime off each pair and then dropped them at local churches and community centers. From there, they were delivered to those in need.
“This was my first big community service project, but I’ve always loved helping out,” Chiaravalle said, adding that she is no longer collecting shoes.
But the overwhelmingly positive response is making her think she may revive Sole Purpose again next year.
