Reliable Subaru, in collaboration with United Way Ozarks Region, provided 504 new pairs of shoes to children at Bingham Elementary School in Springfield. The shoes were distributed to students on February 11 by representatives from Subaru and United Way Ozarks Region. Together, the organizations were able to “share the love” through the Subaru Loves to Help® initiative. Bingham students in kindergarten through fifth grade – 387 children – received a brand-new pair of shoes and two pairs of socks during the event. The school received an additional 117 pairs of shoes, each with two pairs of socks, to meet the needs of its students in an ongoing way.

This is the third year that United Way Ozarks Region and Reliable Subaru have mobilized to support Springfield Public School students through Operation Warm. The continued collaboration aligns with United Way Ozarks Region’s commitment to champion children across the region. This year, the two organizations were joined by volunteers from Arvest Bank who greeted the children, fitted shoes and filled the day with laughter and fun.

“Seeing the joy and excitement on the kids’ faces as they picked out their shoes was incredible,” said Addie Ferber, United Way Ozarks Region’s Director of Communication and Events. “When kids have the resources they need to feel comfortable and cared for, they can focus on learning and growing. We are thrilled to be a part of this initiative and hope to continue for years to come.”

Operation Warm is a national nonprofit that manufactures brand-new, high-quality coats and shoes for children in need. Subaru is the largest automotive supporter of Operation Warm. This initiative is part of the Subaru Love Promise, Subaru’s commitment to improving lives in the community where they live and work. Subaru and its retailers partner with nonprofit agencies across the country annually to provide more than 130,000 children with brand-new necessities like coats, shoes and socks.

“At Reliable Subaru, our heartfelt mission is to give back to the community and make a lasting difference,” said Rachel Rosas, Human Resources Director for Reliable Subaru. “It’s truly a privilege to be involved in such a meaningful initiative. Together, we’re not just distributing shoes; we’re helping to nurture a stronger, more caring community, one step at a time.”