Remi Poliquin
Counsel
Maple Grove Students Receive New Shoes and Socks
Marilyn Santucci
Thanks to FedEx and Operation Warm, students at Maple Grove Elementary School recently stepped into comfort and confidence after receiving brand-new shoes and socks.
A total of 329 students were given the opportunity to choose the styles they liked best, with volunteers on hand to ensure every child found the perfect fit. The event created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as students tried on their new shoes with excitement and gratitude.
Since 2008, FedEx has partnered with the non-profit organization Operation Warm to provide winter coats and running shoes to children in need across Canada and the United States. Through the FedEx Cares initiative, volunteers help distribute high-quality footwear and outerwear designed to keep children warm, comfortable, and ready to learn.
This year, Maple Grove Elementary was proud to be selected as one of the program’s recipients—an opportunity that brought together staff, students, and volunteers in a shared moment of generosity and community spirit.
“FedEx works with Operation Warm, a nonprofit, where every year we work together to get shoes for kids. We are trying to help the community and go into different schools all across Quebec. It’s always great. You see all these volunteers showing up to help distribute these shoes to kids, all with a smile on their face. This year, Maple Grove was chosen” Says Nabil, Senior Manager at FedEx.
Schools are nominated for the program, and selections are based on the needs of the student population and the potential impact on the community. Operation Warm leads the selection process, ensuring that support reaches the schools that would benefit most.
For Maple Grove, the impact was immediate and meaningful.
“What does this mean for Maple Grove? A lot,” said Angela Troli, Community Development Agent at the LBPSB. “The fact that every student is receiving a free pair of shoes and socks is incredible. It’s a huge boost for our community, and it’s truly uplifting to see so many volunteers come together and share this experience with our students.”
Beyond the shoes themselves, the initiative helps foster a sense of care, dignity, and belonging—reminding students that their community is there to support them every step of the way.
