COPPELL, Texas – Shoes for Orphan Souls, a ministry of Buckner International, has announced its first-ever running event to be held at 8 a.m. Oct. 8 at Andy Brown Park East in Coppell, Texas. The Barefoot Run 5K and 1-mile fun run is open to children and adults, and shoes are considered “optional,” said Rachel Garton, director of Shoes for Orphan Souls.

“Barefoot running has become a popular trend, but it’s something the kids we serve around the world face every day,” she said. “They run barefoot because they have to, not by choice. We hope that by hosting a barefoot run we can help raise awareness of the need for shoes and have fun, as well.”

Prizes and medals will be awarded to the winners who run the race barefoot or with shoes. Special games and activities, like the Shoe-put Toss, will also be provided for children or adults who want to participate at the race. All proceeds from the race will benefit children in Africa who need shoes.

Sponsorships are available for businesses or organizations. For more information on sponsorships or to volunteer, please e-mail shoesfororphansouls@buckner.org or call 1-866-774-SHOE.

To sign up for the race or to learn more, visit www.shoesfororphansouls.org/barefootrun.