One Day Without Shoes

At TOMS Shoes their mission is to provide children in developing countries with proper fitting shoes. They "... match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One."

Here is a little blurb from their website:

"Why Shoes?

Many children in developing countries grow up barefoot. Whether at play, doing chores or going to school, these children are at risk:

•A leading cause of disease in developing countries is soil-transmitted diseases, which can penetrate the skin through bare feet. Wearing shoes can help prevent these diseases, and the long-term physical and cognitive harm they cause.

•Wearing shoes also prevents feet from getting cuts and sores. Not only are these injuries painful, they also are dangerous when wounds become infected.

•Many times children can't attend school barefoot because shoes are a required part of their uniform. If they don't have shoes, they don't go to school. If they don't receive an education, they don't have the opportunity to realize their potential."

I just found out about TOMS and their mission earlier this month (I know, I'm so behind), but the company and the good they do are now very close to my heart. I plan on purchasing my first pair of TOMS shoes very soon:) (And possibly a pair for Riley, and a pair for Matt!)

April 5th is One Day Without Shoes: "One Day Without Shoes is the day we take off our shoes to raise awareness of the impact a pair of shoes can have on a child's life."

On the website you will be able to find all the event information, an "Event Toolkit" where you can find: banners for your blog, Posters/Fliers/Signs, Stickers/Stencils, ODWS events near you, learn more about the event, and look at the photo wall.

Shoes are something so basic that we all take advantage of. Raising awareness and support will help everyone in the world enjoy the luxury of shoes!

I hope everyone can and will participate! And if you can't go shoeless, make a t-shirt or some stickers to wear;)

I will post what Riley and I do to celebrate ODWS. See ya [shoeless] on April 5th!

Until next time, toodles!