DFCU Staff Donates Shoes to Support Underserved Communities

Democracy Federal Credit Union has announced the successful conclusion of its internal shoe drive, which ran from October through November 22, 2024 and collected over 100 pairs of shoes.

This initiative focused on collecting new and gently worn shoes and uniting staff across all Democracy Federal Credit Union locations to make a significant impact within the Prince George's County community.

The collected men's shoes were donated to Prince George's House, a transitional home providing shelter and support services to men experiencing homelessness, while women's and children's shoes were donated to Mission of Love Charities, an organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable families through education, training, and emergency services. Both charities are based in Capitol Heights, MD, and play vital roles in addressing critical needs within the area.

The shoe drive was an incubated idea by Andrena L. Smith, Executive Vice President of Democracy Federal Credit Union, who has long envisioned such an initiative as a way to give back to the community.

"This effort is deeply personal to me. Providing shoes may seem like a small gesture, but for those in need, it can mean warmth, mobility, and a renewed sense of dignity. I am so grateful to our team for their generosity and passion in bringing this vision to life," said Smith. "Working with organizations like Prince George's House and Mission of Love Charities aligns perfectly with our mission to serve and uplift underserved communities."

The credit union's efforts were bolstered by the support of the local Walmart, which supported Democracy Federal Credit Union to provide many of the new shoes.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Walmart for their generosity and shared commitment to serving those in need," said Smith. "Our combined efforts show how businesses and organizations can come together to address communal needs and make a lasting difference."

Prince George's House and Mission of Love Charities expressed gratitude for the donations, emphasizing the significant impact they will have on their clients as the colder months approach.

Democracy Federal Credit Union remains dedicated to creating meaningful connections and improving lives within the communities it serves. This shoe drive reflects the organization's core values of compassion, service, and community engagement.