SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Discount Shoe Repair may look like an ordinary shoe shop, but the owner’s mission is far from ordinary.
For the past 13 years, despite the cost, owner Ralph Rotella has donated shoes to anyone in need, ensuring no one in the community goes barefoot. Rotella says he feels at peace knowing he is giving back.
“I feel so good, you know. At night, when you do something good, it feels wonderful. I did a very nice thing today,” he said.
He started his “shoe drive” when he saw a man walking in torn shoes during the winter. Since then, Rotella has donated thousands of pairs to anyone in need.
In his first year, more than a decade ago, he started by donating 35 pairs of shoes. Now, he donates thousands every year. His passion stems from the belief that shoes are more than just something that comforts your feet; they bring joy and nostalgia too. Along with comfort, that’s what he wishes to bring to people.
“Some guy came over, and he had his grandpa’s shoes from World War II. So, I put new heels and soles in them. Every shoe has a story to tell,” he said.
The volunteers at his shop share the same belief that everyone should have shoes, and they strive to provide just that.
“Everybody matters, so we treat people with care and aim for a quick turnaround time. We want them to be happy because they don’t want to be without their shoes,” said Randy Beach, a volunteer.
This mission of kindness is what keeps their customers coming back for decades. Some loyal customers have been coming to the shop for as long as 30 years.
In his record year, Rotella donated more than 23,000 pairs of shoes, and he aims to surpass that this year.
