Binghamton High School alum Noah Farrelly loved to run. Nearly six years after his tragic death, his love for the sport continues to be shared with new generations of Binghamton City School District students. This week, 500 pairs of running shoes were donated across eight BCSD schools.
“We donate running sneakers Binghamton City School District students in need - we want to provide them with safe footwear for them to be able to run, grow, and play, and also we hope to inspire them to run and get involved in track & cross country like Noah,” said Bridgette Farrelly-Hess, Noah’s mom.
While out for a run near the campus of Stony Brook during his freshman year at the university, Farrelly was struck by a vehicle and passed away from his injuries two days later. To honor his memory and share his love for running with his hometown community, the Noah Farrelly Memorial Fund was formed.
“All of our projects are for youth in our community, all are in some way reflective of Noah’s life and his tragic passing,” said Farrelly-Hess, who is also the President of the memorial fund named for her son. “It’s a really great feeling to be able to give the children something that they really need and to be able to help make the Binghamton community a better place in my son’s memory.”
Farrelly’s Feet, the Fund’s sneaker donation initiative, has provided 1,500 pairs of shoes for Binghamton students in just five years. The non-profit also awards scholarships to BCSD students and educates runners on the importance of carrying identification with them. But the hundreds of pairs of shoes that have been distributed is arguably the most visible way in which Noah’s memory is having an impact in his community.
“It’s just a great privilege for them to get a nice new pair of sneakers for those who may not be able to go out and buy a pair,” said West Middle School Principal Kristine Battaglino. “We’re always making sure our kids have what they need every day and this just helps us out a little bit more and we’re so appreciative.”
Noah’s life and legacy will be celebrated at the sixth annual Noah Farrelly Run & Southside Field Day on Sunday, June 2nd. Held at MacArthur Elementary School, where Noah went, and the adjacent park, the event features a kickball tournament, music, food, games, and, of course, a 5K & 10K run. Click here to learn more.