New shoes, big smiles: Maywood councilmember steps up for local kids

Councilmember Eddie De La Riva is giving away more than 50 pairs of shoes to Maywood children on Oct. 27, part of his ongoing efforts to help struggling local families.

MAYWOOD, CA — A new pair of shoes might not seem like much, but for a child whose family is struggling to make ends meet, it can mean the world.

That's what Maywood Councilmember Eddie De La Riva hopes to deliver on Monday, Oct. 27, when he hosts a free shoe giveaway for local children.

De La Riva says he's collected more than 50 pairs of shoes in various sizes, along with socks he hopes to distribute. The giveaway will take place at 5600 Heliotrope Avenue from 4 to 6 p.m.

For De La Riva, who has organized several similar giveaways over the years, the effort is about more than providing footwear. It's about helping children feel confident and proud when they walk into school.

"One thing that I see when we give the shoes away is a smile," De La Riva told The SELA Sun. "We hope they walk away feeling inspired and feeling joy that they got a brand new pair of shoes that fits them."

He said he has seen children in the community wearing shoes in poor condition, a sight that has motivated him to keep organizing giveaways.

"I understand that there's families that are going through some really tough times right now," he said.

With the rising cost of groceries, clothing, and other necessities, De La Riva said many Maywood families are struggling to keep up.

And he's been busy trying to help.

This year alone, De La Riva says he's organized three clothing giveaways, building on previous efforts to distribute winter coats, school supplies, and other essentials. His events have also provided families with food, drinks, diapers, and baby wipes.

Now, he's looking to give even more Maywood kids a spring in their step.

De La Riva said he has raised more than $3,000 to purchase approximately 100 pairs of brand-new sneakers for students at Loma Vista Elementary School through a partnership with the nonprofit Shoes That Fit.

Unlike traditional giveaways, where children must choose from whatever sizes are available, participating students will be measured to ensure they receive shoes that actually fit.

The sneakers will include popular brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Puma, according to De La Riva.

He's also planning additional food distributions later this month and in November, on top of his monthly food giveaways for seniors at the YMCA.

"I'm consistently trying to find resources that I can bring in," he said.

For Monday's shoe giveaway, supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is open to Maywood residents only, and children must be present to receive shoes and try them on. Each child is limited to one pair.

De La Riva hopes the shoes reach families who need them most.

His biggest reward, he said, is seeing a child walk away smiling, proud of their new shoes, and ready to wear them to school without feeling embarrassed by their old ones.

Those interested in supporting future giveaways can contact De La Riva at (323) 238-9801 or eddie.delariva@cityofmaywood.org.

Event details

What: Free children's shoe giveaway

When: Monday, Oct. 27, 4–6 p.m.

Where: 5600 Heliotrope Avenue, Maywood

Who: Maywood residents only

Requirements: Children must be present; one pair per child

Availability: Limited sizes and quantities; first come, first served