COEUR d’ALENE — Kegan Strange left no doubt he loved the new Coach shoes he tried on Thursday at the Lola and Duane Hagadone Boys and Girls Club of Kootenai County in Coeur d’Alene.

“Really good,” Kegan said as he held the black-and-blue sneakers in his arms. “Ten of 10. I’ve been needing shoes. I’m very grateful for them.”

Which brought a big smile to Rita Case.

“I’m so glad,” she said. “It’s so important you get shoes that fit.”

Case, president and CEO of Rick Case Automotive Group, funded the giveaway of about 450 pairs of shoes and 900 pairs of socks at the nonprofit club on 15th Street.

It was the fourth year where hundreds of kids have been excited for the chance to not only try on the latest shoe styles, but select the pair of their choice.

They took turns entering the gym, having their feet measured by volunteers, and being sent to tables where Nike, Reebok, Adidas and New Balance brands awaited, along with more volunteers ready to help.

One little boy asked that pictures be taken only if the new shoes on his feet, then gave the photographer a hug.

A girl walked up to a friend and held up pair of pink Nike basketball shoes.

“Look at these,” she said, grinning.

Case believes the right athletic shoes, ones worn with pride, can help kids build self-confidence and encourage them to join physical activities.

“It will carry them all into the school year as well,” she said.

The free shoe campaign — and in the winter a coat and boot giveaway — is thanks to the work of the late Rick Case and his wife, Rita, who established Boys and Girls Club locations in their home state of Florida and have donated often in Coeur d’Alene.

Case said they are looking to add another Boys and Girls Club in North Idaho. Funded by donations, it offers after-school programs, snacks, supervision, help with homework, sports and crafts.

On Thursday, the Coeur d'Alene club was packed with energetic kids, all appearing to have good times.

“I’m very committed to the mission of the Boys and Girls Club,” Rita Case said.

Mark Kuhnhausen, executive director, Boys and Girls Clubs of Kootenai County, was pleased to see so many thrilled kids walking away, new shoes already on their feet.

“This is pretty special,” he said.

Delilah Bailey, 6, was beaming as she showed off a pair of pink and white shoes to Case, and gave her a hug.

“The pink matches your necklace,’ Case said.

Volunteer Tony Angel said it was rewarding to spend time with kids and put them in the right shoes.

“I’ve gotten a thank you from every one of them,” he said “One of them offered to give me a million bucks.”