DEPEW, N.Y. — Melissa Frawley of Depew started the "Stuff the Sneakers" campaign 10 years ago in honor of her late nephew, Danny.
She says he dealt with drug addiction and, at times, homelessness, but just prior to his passing he was trying to help others and was collecting personal care items for those in need. Frawley said Danny is remembered for his caring heart, acceptance of others, and his special bear hugs.
So after his passing, she continued his mission. Every April she collects footwear and personal hygiene products and donates them to local organizations.
In the decade she's been doing the Stuff the Sneakers campaign, she's collected and donated over 1300 pairs of footwear, 1200 pairs of socks, thousands of personal care items, and $2,250 for Kids Escaping Drugs.
She says she knows her nephew would be proud.
"We had a passion for helping others. I know he's always with me in my heart, and it just kind of helps to comfort me, and brings a lot of comfort to my family, to carry on his loving memory through this campaign," said Frawley.
From April 1 to April 30, Frawley is accepting donations for men, women, young adults and children of:
- Footwear
- Socks
- Underwear
- Deodorant
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Wipes
- Tissues
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrushes
(Donations of clothing graciously declined)
Donations will be distributed to the following local organizations:
Donations can be dropped off at Catalyst Fitness locations and at Julia Boyer Reinstein Library at 1030 Losson Rd. in Cheektowaga. You can also buy from this Amazon wish list here.
Churches, schools, businesses and organizations are also invited to host collections.
For more information email melissafrawley222@msn.com or call (716) 444-4814.
