Every student deserves to walk into school with confidence—and for many students at the Indiana School for the Deaf (ISD), something as basic as a well-fitting pair of shoes can make all the difference.

This September, we’re launching the ISD “Big Closet” Shoe Drive, a month-long community effort focused on meeting one of the most frequently identified needs among ISD students: access to appropriate, comfortable shoes.

Our Primary Goal: Shoes First

We are asking our community to come together to donate new or gently used shoes for students of ages 3-18.

Athletic shoes
Everyday casual shoes
Seasonal footwear

The drive kicks off on September 8th! Donations will continue to be collected through the end of the month with donation boxes located each at the front doors of Willard and the Elementary School's Door #3.

Beyond Shoes: Supporting the “Big Closet”

While shoes are our top priority, many ISD students rely on the “Big Closet” for everyday essentials. Throughout the campaign, we’ll also highlight ongoing needs, including:

Hygiene products
Clothing
Linens

You can support these needs in multiple ways:

Shop directly from our Amazon Wish List
Donate similar items you already have (new or gently used for specific items)
Contribute supplies outside of Amazon

If You Can’t Donate Items

You can still make a meaningful impact.

Monetary donations help us:

Purchase urgently needed items
Fill gaps when specific sizes or products are unavailable
Sustain the Big Closet year-round

Every dollar goes directly toward supporting ISD students.

How You Can Help

1. Donate Shoes (Most Needed!)
Drop off new or gently used shoes at ISD throughout May.

2. Shop the Wish List
Purchase essential items students need every day.

3. Give What You Can
Make a financial donation to support ongoing needs.

Email questions to: IDCFdonations@gmail.com

Step Up for ISD: Big Closet Shoe Drive

Help ISD students walk confidently—donate shoes, essentials, or give what you can.

Team Members