Each time a person buys a pair of Toms, another pair is given to a child in need. Now, the footwear company is taking its philanthropy one step further.
This year, the company launched a new initiative in honor of its annual One Day Without Shoes event, which raises awareness for the importance of shoes in a child’s life.
From May 5–May 21, a pair of shoes will be given to a child in need each time someone shares a photo of their bare feet on Instagram along with the hashtag #withoutshoes. There is no purchase necessary.
“This year’s One Day Without Shoes will be different than any we’ve ever done,” said founder Blake Mycoskie. “We’re extending the timeframe to build awareness and anticipation, but most importantly, so that more people can participate in an effort to give more.”
Children living in poverty without shoes are more prone to infections and diseases. One of these is podoconiosis affecting about four million people living in highland tropical Africa as well as others in more than 15 countries. The preventable disease, which occurs from constant exposure to irritant soils, causes uncomfortable swelling in the legs and feet and eventually leads to disfigurement.
Toms says its initiative also benefits education, because school attendance increases by 62 percent when a child is provided a school uniform with shoes.
“We believe in creating a world where we live for one, another," the company says.
Watch the video below and please SHARE to spread to help a child in need!
