The Valparaiso Family YMCA is conducting a shoe collection drive on September 1 - November 29 to raise funds for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA. The Y will earn funds based on the number of pairs collected at the Valparaiso Family YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing Drive and Extra Mile, 1330 E. Lincolnway.
In the US alone, approximately 600 million pairs of shoes are thrown away each year. The materials used to manufacture shoes are created from chemical compounds, the kind that will create health hazards if left to disintegrate openly or in landfills. These unwanted shoes help impoverished people to start, maintain, and grow a micro-enterprise. The shoes collected by our fundraiser will help to create sustainable economic impact in countries that need it the most. Shoes are consolidated and shipped to on-the-ground business operators where they clean or make minor repairs. The shoes you collect will empower individuals to provide basic necessities for families, while helping us provide funding for cancer survivors to grow stronger in our 12-week, free program, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA.
“We are excited about our shoe drive," said Jodi Jackson, Event and Volunteer Coordinator. "We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like to donate and help those less fortunate become self-sufficient. It’s a win-win for everyone. Please consider collecting shoes from your family, friends and community groups to help us reach our goal of 300 bags of 25 pairs of shoes by November 29th.”