The Chargers are synonymous with giving back to the San Diego Community, and on their off day it's no different.
On Tuesday, the Bolts participated in the organization's annual Shoe Distribution with Payless ShoeSource to help children in need from grades K-6 shop for new shoes.
The 28th annual event proved to be bigger than ever. Along with Payless, 1,100 pairs were generously provided by Chargers Chairman Dean Spanos. For the first time ever, the event expanded to five stores in effort to reach more San Diego County children in need of good shoes.
"This is where we use that platform," said Manti Te'o. "At the end of the day, it's all about giving back and making people happy. As long as you make them smile and know that they're smiling because of you, it's the best feeling in the world. I'm grateful for the opportunities that we get to do this."
Whether they were sneakers, or Te'o's favorite, "shoes with lights", the young children chose from a wide array of kicks and had some pretty cool personal shoppers to help them. The players teamed up with the kids to find the perfect size and style.
Kellen Clemens had the pleasure of helping multiple kids, including Carla and Randy. Carla said having Clemens help her was "fun" and that she's looking forward to breaking in her new running shoes because she'll "get to run on the field more."
"We had a lot of fun," Clemens added. "Randy knew exactly what he wanted because we were looking for blue shoes he could run in. It's awesome. I think he's going to put a lot of miles on these shoes. Any opportunity you have to give back and interact with kids, especially with one who is as good of a kid as Randy, it's awesome for us."
Like Te'o, rookie Hunter Henry knows how important using his NFL status to help others is and said there was no better feeling than helping those less fortunate.
"It's really cool," Henry said. "You remember when you were in these kids' shoes, so to be able to give back to little kids and kids who might not get as much as we get is cool to see."
Chargers players helped deserving children shop for new shoes at five Payless ShoeSource locations throughout San Diego.
