A student-led Montgomery County-based nonprofit is quickly making an impact across the region, collecting and distributing hundreds of pairs of shoes to students and families in need just weeks after launching. Lift Every Step, founded by Brianna Frank and her brother Brandon, is a registered 501(c)(3) organization focused on increasing access to essential footwear throughout the DMV. What started out of a garage in Montgomery County has rapidly grown into a community-driven effort with donation sites and partnerships across the area.
In just one month since launching in February 2026, the organization has collected and donated 621 pairs of new and gently used shoes to nine schools and community organizations, helping support children and families who may otherwise lack proper footwear. The idea behind Lift Every Step is simple: many families have shoes sitting unused as children quickly outgrow them, while others struggle to afford even basic necessities. By redistributing those shoes, the group aims to remove a barrier that can impact everything from school attendance to job opportunities.
“Something as basic as a good pair of shoes can transform a person’s day, their confidence, and their opportunities,” the organization shares. That mission is already gaining traction locally. The nonprofit now has 16 donation boxes placed throughout Montgomery County and the broader DMV, making it easy for residents to contribute by dropping off gently used or new shoes.
Looking ahead, Lift Every Step plans to expand its efforts beyond schools and community organizations, with its next initiative focused on distributing shoes directly to individuals experiencing homelessness in Washington, DC. For Brianna and Brandon, the goal is not just collecting shoes, but building a movement centered on community support and accessibility. With early momentum and growing visibility, the organization is encouraging residents to get involved with a simple message… clean out your closet for a cause.
