Mission
Step It Up provides new tennis shoes to hundreds of children in Elgin and surrounding communities as they prepare for the new school year.
Since its beginning in 2009, over 16,000 pairs of new shoes have been provided to children in our community - a number that we are blessed to see continue to grow year after year.
With God’s faithful provision, new shoes are purchased through partnerships with other congregations, businesses, civic clubs, and generous donations from caring individuals. Through this ministry we meet a tangible need in the community and share God’s love with those close to home.
2026 DISTRIBUTION DAYs are
friday & saturday, August 7 & 8
WHAT TO KNOW
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE SHOES?
Children in the Fox Valley area from age Preschool to High School.
WHEN & WHERE DO WE RECEIVE SHOES?
First Baptist Church of Elgin (1735 W Highland Ave, Elgin, IL)
Friday & Saturday, August 7th & 8th
You will be assigned a time when you register. Online registration is mandatory.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Children must be present to receive shoes. They will be trying on the shoes to ensure correct size. No exceptions will be made.
Shoes will be distributed on a “first come, first served” basis, and therefore we cannot guarantee that your child’s size will be available.
DONATE SHOES
Step It Up is always accepting shoe donations (new shoes only, used shoes cannot be accepted) - donations can be dropped off at the church office, or (if ordering online) shipped directly to:
First Baptist Church
1735 West Highland Avenue
Elgin, Illinois 60123
financial contributions
All money donated will only be used to purchase new tennis shoes. Make checks payable to First Baptist Church and write “Step It Up” on the memo line or follow the link below to contribute online.
JOIN THE TEAM
From setup to traffic control to shoe fitters, there are many moving parts that help make our Step It Up distribution run smoothly every year. Whatever your interest, skill set, or experience, we guarantee that we have a place for you on the Step It Up team. If you are interested in joining the team and being a part of this incredible ministry, follow the link below to register.