Decades before Pastor Deante Lavender and his wife, Pastor Lesa Lavender, launched The Remedy Church in Akron, he lived in Cleveland shelters with his mother, who was working through her addictions. Before he had an opportunity to say his name in school, some people judged his image and appearance, actions that can negatively impact a child’s confidence. These experiences fuel his philanthropic efforts. On Saturday, the Lavenders hosted the fifth annual Back to School Shoe Giveaway at North High School, where they lead their congregation’s Sunday morning services. Volunteers distributed approximately 1,400 pairs of free shoes.
