The first time I ever became aware of TOMS Shoes was through an AT&T commercial.And what surprised me most wasn’t the shoe itself, or even how young the founder, Blake Mycoskie, was. What intrigued me was their mission statement.
With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need.
In today’s rapidly advancing society, it’s rare to come across a truly original idea that aims to push the world forward. TOMS, I believe, is one of those rarities.
On April 8, TOMS will be hosting One Day Without Shoes for a third consecutive year. This event is used to bring attention to how large of an impact a single pair of shoes can have in a child’s life.
“We ask people to go the day, part of the day, or even just a few minutes, barefoot, to experience what millions of children endure every day,” Mycoskie said.
In a promotional video for this year’s One Day Without Shoes, people are shown holding signs displaying these facts:
Fact one: In some developing countries, children must walk for miles to food, clean water and to seek medical help.
Fact two: Cuts and sores on feet can lead to serious infection.
Fact three: Often, children cannot attend school barefoot.
Fact four: In Ethiopia, approximately one million people are suffering from Podoconiosis, a debilitating and disfiguring disease caused by walking barefoot in volcanic soil.
Fact five: Podoconiosis is 100 percent preventable with basic foot hygiene and wearing shoes.
You can learn more about TOMS and the One Day Without Shoes campaign at their website. Check or organize events, RSVP and download promotional tools like banners, stickers and stencils.
“A shoe company asking people to go barefoot?” Mycoskie said. “I know it's odd, but we are so excited for people to once again join us in One Day Without Shoes.”
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