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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — After a tragedy in 2020, one family has spent the years since collecting shoes for children in need.
Jaren Fountain’s family remembers him as a caring and kind young man.
“Jaren had a very big heart like his mama. He was very compassionate towards individuals. He did random acts of kindness all the time, unknown to us until after his death,” Jaren’s stepfather, Lee Arnold said.
In February of 2020, Jaren passed away in a car crash. Following his death, the Orthopedic Institute, where his stepfather worked, wanted to do something for his family.
“They came up with the idea of maybe doing a shoe drive, thinking it was going to be a one time deal. So that’s what we went with,” Jaren’s mom, Julie Arnold said.
What they thought would be a one year drive, has become an annual event. Through ‘JJ’s Kicks 4 Kids’ they have collected over 1,500 shoes, giving them to the Children’s Home Society–something they believe Jaren would’ve appreciated.
“Jaren loved shoes and the wilder the shoes, the better. He just loved his shoes. And, you know, I think it gave him a feel of confidence when you put those brand new shoes on. He felt like he was on the top of the world,” Julie said.
The shoe drive keeps Jaren’s legacy of kindness alive for both the family, and the children who receive the shoes.
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“I think his memory stays alive by him shining down upon us, looking down and just with a smile when he sees the kids with the brand new pairs of shoes as it made him feel good inside,” Julie said.
“He basically taught us to do random acts of kindness. And so that’s what keeps us going, is all these children at our children’s home society, just absolutely thrilled to have a new pair of shoes,” Lee said.
On February 8th, anyone who attends the Skyforce game and brings a new pair of shoes can receive 4 tickets to the game.
Click here for information to donate to JJ’s Kicks 4 Kids.
Venmo-@JARENJAMES
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