Local community groups “hit the ground running” with thousands of new shoes

Children across the community got themselves some fancy new shoes thanks to the collaboration between KCR and East Meets West Children’s Foundation. (Image Credit: KCR/East Meets West)

Apr 10, 2026 | 6:01 AM Pattison Media

A collaboration between two local community groups has helped get 2,000 pairs of new shoes to kids in need.

East Meets West Children’s Foundation secured a donation of the footwear, and they reached out to Kelowna Community Resources (KCR) who had the ability to distribute directly to families.

“This was a natural fit,” Rahul Virk, Chair of East Meets West said in a media release. “We knew that a trusted organization such as KCR would be able to ensure they reached the families who would benefit most. KCR’s reputation and community presence made them the ideal partner. Seeing these shoes go directly to children who need them most has been incredibly rewarding.”

For KCR, the initiative represents both responsiveness and a willingness to step beyond traditional service delivery to meet emerging needs in the community.