Shoes That Fit and Borgata Donate 500 New Sneakers to Students at AC’s MLK School

ATLANTIC CITY — Hundreds of students at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex went home smiling on December 4, 2025, as a national nonprofit, a major casino resort, and dedicated school staff teamed up to deliver an unforgettable sneaker giveaway.

The event, led by Shoes That Fit, was powered by a partnership with Borgata Casino Resort and funding from the MGM Foundation. Together, the organizations provided more than 500 brand-new pairs of sneakers to students just in time for the holiday season.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small said the outpouring of support showed students that the community stands firmly behind them.

“The Atlantic City Public Schools extends its deepest gratitude to Shoes That Fit, the Borgata Casino Resort, and the MGM Foundation for their extraordinary generosity,” Dr. Small said. “This initiative provided far more than new shoes. It offered encouragement, support, and a reminder that our children are deeply valued.”

A School Selected for Its Impact

Principal Jodi Burroughs said the school was intentionally chosen because of the difference the project could make for its students.

“Today, you are being blessed,” Burroughs told the children gathered in the gymnasium. “We are so grateful.”

Representatives from Shoes That Fit traveled to Atlantic City with an assortment of major brands—including Nike, Adidas, and Reebok—to ensure each child could choose a style and size that fit.

Debra Moton, the organization’s Head of Sports and Entertainment Partnerships, praised the students’ enthusiasm and manners.

“We do events all over the United States, and this school has been wonderful,” Moton said. “The kids are absolutely incredible. They’re well-mannered and gracious.”

A Gift That Makes a Difference

For many families, the gesture couldn’t have come at a better time.

“With things costing a bit more these days, this should help some families,” said Wilbur Banks, Parent Resource Center officer. “We are truly grateful for the Shoes That Fit organization.”

Ty Russell, a mentor at the Parent Resource Center, said students were excited from the moment they learned the sneakers were coming.

“We made sure we collected every student’s shoe size,” Russell said. “So — happy early Merry Christmas.”

Moton added that the goal goes beyond footwear.

“Ultimately, it’s about them feeling comfortable and wanting to run, jump, and play,” she said. “This helps the parents as well. Especially during the holidays, there’s no better time to get a new pair of shoes.”

Community Partners Give Back Together

Borgata Human Resource Business Partner Erika Martyn said her team was proud to participate. She noted that Shoes That Fit applied for MGM Foundation funding, making the large-scale giveaway possible.

“We were so excited to see Shoes That Fit reach out to us and to be part of this program,” Martyn said.

Some Borgata team members have children enrolled at the school and volunteered at the event.

“They’re here today handing out shoes to their own children,” Martyn said. “It’s an overall loving feeling — not only to give back, but to do it alongside team members whose families are part of this community.”

A Model for Future Partnerships

The collaboration between Shoes That Fit, Borgata, and the MGM Foundation highlights what’s possible when community partners work together on behalf of local students.

As children went back to class with their new sneakers — the impact was immediate and heartfelt. The giveaway offered comfort, confidence, and a reminder that Atlantic City’s youngest residents are supported by a village of caring adults.

For the students at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Complex, the message was simple: generosity and partnership can truly change lives — one step at a time.

Thanks for reading the whole story!

At Atlantic City Focus, we're committed to providing a platform where the diverse voices of our community can be heard, respected, and celebrated. As an independent online news platform, we rely on a unique mix of affordable advertising and the support of readers like you to continue delivering quality, community journalism that matters. Please support the businesses and organizations that support us by clicking on their ads. And by making a tax deductible donation today, you become a catalyst for change helping to amplify the authentic voices that might otherwise go unheard. And every contribution is greatly appreciated. Join us in making a difference—one uplifting story at a time!

GET UP WITH ATLANTIC CITY FOCUS and RAYMOND TYLER
STARTING MONAY, FEB 10th AT 8AM!