Hearts & Soles

By Elia Rocha -

In honor of our late co-founder Jennifer Fitzgerald's birthday, long-time supporters Dennis & Leslie Smith have purchased shoes to give as gifts to the little ones at our Play Houses.  Dennis came up with the name, Hearts & Soles, the first time he did this on Jennifer's birthday, just ten days after she passed away.  That was in 2005, and they've been doing it ever since.  Christine Lorenzetti, Jennifer's sister and Children Today board member extraordinaire, says they chose shoes to honor Jennifer with because she loved them so much. 

About a week ago, Dennis & Leslie Smith, Chris Lorenzetti, and Play House North Program Director Gina Guffy, went shopping!

From Left: Leslie Smith, Gina Guffy, Christine Lorenzetti, & Dennis Smith.

They purchased shoes for every child at the Play House North.  Teachers then helped the kids try on the shoes that were hand-picked just for them. 

Everyone gets very excited in March when Hearts & Soles comes around; the teachers, the parents, and the kids, of course! Here they are modeling their new kicks.

Thanks so much Dennis & Leslie Smith for your kindness and generosity!