On March 22nd, 2014, local Bay Area communities have partnered with Focus (Fellowship of Orthodox Christians United to Serve) North America to organize a benefit, which will continuously support underprivileged children throughout the nation.  This year, our goal is to gather over 700 participants eager to run, jog, or walk to not only fund Focus' Operation Lace-Up Program, but also contribute to a healthier and more active community.  To reach this goal, we are seeking support from you.

Through Operation Lace Up, FOCUS has partnered with a major American shoe company to distribute thousands of new athletic shoes to impoverished children in 28 metropolitan areas across the United States.  

Support raised through the 2014 Run for FOCUS will allow FOCUS to continue maintaining Operation Lace Up and similar programs that provide aid to children living in poverty stricken communities across the United States.

According to the US Department of Education, each year over 800,000 children and young people in the United States experience homelessness.  Through the Operation Lace Up program, you have been given an opportunity to alleviate a national concern.  The impact that a pair of shoes can make in a childs health and educational development is pivotal, as many children are unable to attend school simply because of a lack of shoes.  Through this program, and with the help of public school districts across America, hundreds of thousands of children affected by homelessness and poverty will receive two pairs of brand new shoes per year.

FOCUS does not discriminate based on religious faith or affiliation and aims solely to provide action-oriented and sustainable solutions to poverty in communities across America