Heartfelt Footsteps: A simple gesture of love and warmth

This story was shared with me by Debbie Marshall, Regional Client Services Manager at Community Health Centers of South Central Texas (CHCSCT) and founder of COPE — Community Outreach People Empowerment. Her vision and dedication have brought warmth and comfort to many children in our communities through an initiative she calls Heartfelt Footsteps.

February, often celebrated as the month of love, reminded Debbie of the many children who may be struggling with something as simple as staying warm. One particularly cold day, she noticed a toddler in a grocery store wearing a coat — but no socks. The sight struck her deeply. She thought of how uncomfortable it must have been for that child, remembering how even as an adult, she sometimes regretted not wearing socks and boots in the cold. That moment ignited a mission in her heart.

Regardless of the season — winter, spring, summer, or fall — socks remain an essential yet often overlooked necessity. Children who play sports, wear tennis shoes daily, or simply go about their routines require them year-round. Recognizing this need, Debbie was inspired to take action, and so began her passionate mission: Heartfelt Footsteps.

Through Heartfelt Footsteps, socks were collected and distributed to foster homes, Head Start programs, community outreach initiatives, and other meaningful organizations that provide love, education, and care to children in our communities. What started as a simple observation became a project filled with compassion, generosity, and community spirit.

Debbie sincerely thanks those who donated and helped turn this heartfelt thought into a reality. Your kindness and generosity have warmed not only the feet of children but also their hearts. God bless you.

Special thanks to our supporters:

• COPE Executive Committee

• Community Health Centers of South Central Texas

• Rotary Club of Gonzales

• Gonzales Noon Lions Club

• Gonzales Memorial Hospital Ladies Auxiliary

• Wal-Mart

• Community Action of South Central Texas

• Episcopal Church of the Messiah Bible Study

• Greater Webster Chapel AME

• Kathy Crawley

• Bruce Mauldin

• Kristi Posey

• Sharon Hastings-Broom

• Karen & Rob Blakeley

• Multiple donors who requested anonymity

Through the generosity of these individuals and organizations, Heartfelt Footsteps continues to make an impact, reminding us all that even the smallest gestures — like a pair of socks — can bring warmth and comfort to those in need.

Debbie promises to continue growing this initiative and to seek even more sponsors who are willing to help make a difference. With the support of the community, Heartfelt Footsteps will keep moving forward, ensuring that no child has to go without this simple but essential necessity.

A special moment in this journey was receiving a generous donation of 150 socks from members of Greater Webster Methodist Church.

It has been my privilege to share Debbie’s inspiring story and her vision for Heartfelt Footsteps. As someone working at CHCSCT and in the community, I am grateful for the opportunity to help highlight the incredible work being done to support children in need and the power of community-driven initiatives like hers. I am grateful for the opportunity to help highlight the incredible work being done to support children in need and the power of community-driven initiatives like hers.