SAN DIMAS/LA VERNE – Forty Ekstrand Elementary School students walked around campus with an extra spring in their step after receiving a surprise gift of brand-new shoes from Bonita Unified Board of Education President Greg Palatto and Ekstrand Principal Gerard Granade on Oct. 21.

The donation, made possible by Shoes That Fit and the San Dimas Masonic Lodge, brought smiles and excitement as students eagerly tried on their new footwear, marveling at the size, color, and brand options tailored for them. Each year, the San Dimas Masonic Lodge chooses a local charity to sponsor; in support of Shoes That Fit, members raised more than $1,200 to fund the donation of shoes for Ekstrand students in need, who were identified by school staff.

“Watching the students’ faces light up when they received their new shoes was unforgettable,” Granade said. “We are grateful to Shoes That Fit, the San Dimas Masonic Lodge, and Board President Palatto for their support of our students.”

Shoes That Fit, which was founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization that partners with schools nationwide to provide under-resourced students with the essentials they need to thrive academically and personally.

Established in 1911, the San Dimas Masonic Lodge is a community-focused organization with more than 100 local members that provides community support through donations, volunteering, and more.

“It was incredibly rewarding to be part of this collaboration and help our community come together to provide support for students in need,” said Palatto, who is also a member of the San Dimas Masonic Lodge. “Strong community partnerships are beneficial to our students’ overall well-being, and Bonita Unified is lucky to have the support of many local organizations. Thank you to everyone who donated and made this experience possible.”

PHOTOS:

BUSD_EKSTRAND_SHOES1: Ekstrand Elementary principal Gerard Granade showcases a pile of shoe boxes, ready to be distributed to students, on Oct. 21. Forty Ekstrand students received a new pair of shoes from Shoes That Fit, thanks to funding from the San Dimas Masonic Lodge.

BUSD_EKSTRAND_SHOES2: Bonita Unified Board of Education President Greg Palatto and Ekstrand Elementary Principal Gerard Granade distribute shoes to Ekstrand students on Oct. 21, provided through a partnership between Shoes That Fit and the San Dimas Masonic Lodge.