Pacific Northwest winters are taxing, but imagine having nothing but ragged, hole-ridden shoes to battle the sopping wet weather.

For thousands of foster children in Washington, trudging to school with improper footwear is an unfortunate reality. That’s why Sleep Country USA is holding its annual Shoe Drive for Foster Kids.

The shoe drive will run Jan. 3-30.

Donations of new shoes for boys and girls in all sizes can be dropped off at the nearest Sleep Country, and they’ll be matched with an area foster child in need.

The gift of new shoes is a small but important step toward helping foster kids put their best food forward.

Local Sleep Country locations are: 540 Industry Drive SW, Suite B, Auburn; 35105 Enchanted Parkway S., Federal Way; 31610 Pacific Highway S., Federal Way.

For more information please visit www.sleepcountry.com or call 1-888-88-SLEEP.