URBANA — Sophomore Emma Coverdill began a shoe drive for Guatemalan children in December, and she's happy to report that the response went far beyond her expectations.

"The drive was overwhelmingly successful," she said. "I think we collected about 500 pairs."

Emma began the shoe drive after her family was contacted by Anita Chary, a 2004 Uni alum and former classmate of her brother, Drew.

Chary works for a nongovernmental organization in Guatemala called Wuqu’ Kawoq. The organization seeks to improve medical care delivery to the indigenous highlands of Guatemala, where the most of the people speak Mayan languages as their native tongue.

Through her work with Wuqu’ Kawoq, Chary learned about the intestinal worm problems in Guatemala and discovered that children often get the worms through their feet, Emma said.

So, when Chary contacted the Coverdills and asked them to collect used shoes in good condition to give to the children, Emma decided to help out.

"I just wanted to do something to help both Anita and the children in Guatemala," she explained.

In December, Chary returned to the United States to visit family and friends. As she was leaving, Chary "filled up a few suitcases full of shoes" and took them back to Guatemala, Emma said. "Anita was really thankful for our collection."

Emma expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the shoe drive.

"It went really well, and I am so happy that we were able to help make a difference in the lives of children in Guatemala," she said. "And, I just want to thank everyone who donated a pair of shoes."