Since I am such a shoe connoisseur, it always makes my heart warm knowing that my simple obsession sometimes helps someone truly in need.
A while back, I was introduced to TOMS Shoes, a company stationed in Santa Monica, California created by traveler and entrepreneur Blake Mycoskie - where they making shoes for people from all walks of life. Not only that, but this ever-expanding for-profit company operates a non-profit subsidiary called Friends of TOMS.
Mycoskie had an epiphany one afternoon after witnessing the conditions faced by poor villagers in Argentina during the second season of 'The Amazing Race,' that when he returned to the US, he was going to start a shoe company where with every pair sold he would donate a pair to someone in need.
A tremendous promise - but one that he and his company has stood by to this day.
But 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 love and endorse this brand first and foremost because it takes a great person and a large heart to risk everything to benefit those who have little to nothing. I respect anyone willing to make a change, no matter the size, because they truly are the heros of life.
Not only that, but the shoes are terrific!
I simply adore the classic canvas shoes because the alpargata shoes (the style worn by Argentinian farmers) are not only comfortable and stylish, but well made and simply go with everything. These shoes are versatile in every form of the word, and have the ability to spice up any ensemble - from formal to casual.
And by all means, get even spicier and try a pattern, bright color, or buy a blank canvas shoe and create something yourself!
Visit TOMS Shoes for more styles, company info, and ways YOU can help those in needs.
Visit TOMS Shoes for more styles, company info, and ways YOU can help those in needs.
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| Ash Canvas Classic, $44 |
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| Tyler Ramsey Hand Painted, $68 |
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| Love is the New Black, $54 |
