University of Jamestown Brings Back Barefoot Classic, Shoe Drive Returns

The University of Jamestown on November 17 announced the return of the Barefoot Classic, a basketball doubleheader and charitable campaign in partnership with Samaritan’s Feet International. The event is scheduled for December 6 at Harold Newman Arena, with the men tipping off at 1:00 p.m. and the women scheduled to play at 3:00 p.m. Attendees who bring new or gently used athletic shoes or make a donation will be admitted free, and the university says the UJ teams and community are working to collect enough shoes and donations to provide about 500 pairs to local residents in need.

Organizers describe the Barefoot Classic as both a sporting event and a public health and social equity initiative. Shoes are a basic necessity that affect mobility, participation in school and recreational activities, and protection from injury and infection. By making footwear the currency for admission, the campaign ties community celebration to direct material support for families who may lack access to adequate athletic shoes.

Samaritan’s Feet International will play a central role in the campaign, partnering with the university to distribute collected shoes to children and adults. The organization’s involvement brings a structured distribution model and experience in large scale shoe drives, which local leaders say can help ensure donations reach those with the greatest need in Stutsman County and surrounding areas.

Donations can be brought to the game on December 6, and the university is also accepting donations in advance and online to support the campaign. Advance drop off locations and details for online contributions are available through the university and Samaritan’s Feet. Organizers emphasized that both new and gently used athletic shoes are welcome, and monetary gifts will supplement collections to reach the goal of about 500 pairs.

The event has implications beyond a single day. Access to proper footwear intersects with school readiness, youth sports participation, and broader public health outcomes. For low income families, covering expenses such as shoes can be a barrier to safe participation in exercise and routine activities, which in turn affects physical and mental health. Local health and social service providers often see the downstream impacts of material insecurity, and community drives like this can provide immediate relief while highlighting the need for longer term investments in equitable access to basic needs.

For Stutsman County residents, the Barefoot Classic offers a chance to support neighbors while enjoying collegiate basketball. The combination of athletic competition and tangible assistance aims to strengthen community ties and address an everyday necessity for hundreds of people. Residents seeking more information can contact the University of Jamestown or Samaritan’s Feet International to learn about donation details and how to participate.