One for One

In 2006 an American traveler, Blake Mycoskie, befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by caring TOMS customers.

Since our beginning in May 2006, TOMS has given over 600,000* pairs of shoes to children in need, through the purchases of caring customers. *As of April 2010

One for One

TOMS Shoes was founded on a simple premise: With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One. Using the purchasing power of individuals to benefit the greater good is what we're all about. The TOMS One for One business model transforms our customers into benefactors, which allows us to grow a truly sustainable business rather than depending on fundraising for support.

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.


The first time I had ever heard of Toms Shoes was when I went to SEU's National Leadership Forum during my Spring Break last year. I was so enamored by this cause and getting to hear Blake speak. He actually won an award from my school for everything he has done! Toms has grown tremendously since it started and continues to amaze me. They are coming out with more styles and choices. What I love is that for one, they are extremely comfortable, and they are versatile in the sense that they can be created into whatever the owner wants! Paint it. Glitter. Draw. Anything! They also just came out with super cute wedges. Not only am I making a fashion statement, but I am also helping one more child have a pair of shoes. And to me, that is the greatest gift!

And here is a picture of my very first Toms I ever bought. :)

So if you want to start making a difference, one pair of shoes at a time, you can either get these at www.tomsshoes.com or by stopping by Alter'd State in Turkey Creek! They have a good selection there.

Blessings,
Abby