WEISER, Idaho – Optum Idaho’s ‘Give Cold Feet the Boot’ campaign is back for its fourth year and was at Culdesac elementary school Thursday, November 10 providing a free pair of boots and socks to students ahead of the holidays, in partnership with D&B Supply, North 40 Outfitters, and CAL Ranch, Optum Idaho.

This event is taking place at 10 Idaho elementary schools, selected by the Idaho State Department of Education, with a FREE pair of warm boots and socks ahead of the holidays.

Unfortunately, thousands of Idaho students step out the door each morning with the wrong-sized shoes, worn shoes, and, in some cases, no shoes. A lack of adequate clothing can threaten a student’s learning environment, negatively impacting a student’s physical/mental health and placing a strain on our dedicated teachers, administration, counselors, and staff.

“Optum’s ‘Give Cold Feet the Boot’ efforts allows for a community partnership to help ensure we are working together on addressing basic needs for some of our most vulnerable Idahoans – children,” said Optum Idaho Executive Director Georganne Benjamin. “By assisting parents or guardians by providing an essential need, like warm boots and socks in the winter, families can focus on other needs and better assist their students with learning priorities. ‘Give Cold Feet the Boot’ is one step toward a better learning environment and, hopefully, the long-term success of Idaho students.”

Volunteers helped distribute boots and socks at Culdesac School on Nov. 10, 9 a.m. PT.