More Than 43,000 Pairs of New Shoes for Vulnerable Children
Shoes were packed and shipped to nonprofit Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls® for distribution in countries like Guatemala and Dominican Republic.
Rotary Clubs across Missouri in collected more than 43,000 pairs of new shoes, over 14,000 pairs of socks, and more than $56,000 for vulnerable children served by Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®.
Rotarians across Missouri gathered April 19-21 at Lake of the Ozarks and celebrated their efforts during a statewide conference. Since 2001, Missouri Rotarians have donated more than 438,000 new pairs of shoes and more than $322,000 to Shoes for Orphan Souls. In addition, this year several clubs donated to local school shoe lockers.
“We are so grateful for the way our community came together to help children in need through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls® program,” said Mary Ann Beahan, District Secretary and Public Image Chair, District 6080.
“Our annual drive would not be possible without the support of our local businesses, churches, retailers, and civic groups. It’s the generosity and love of our local residents that bring hope to thousands of kids each year.”
“Many Americans take shoes for granted, but for many children around the world, they are a luxury. Shoes protect feet from diseases such as hookworm, which can lead to physical and cognitive development issues, and provide children with an opportunity to attend school,” said Shawn Spurrier, director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls.
The shoes collected during the drive will provide hope for children living in orphanages and impoverished communities where Buckner International offers a variety of services. Through foster care, empowerment programs, transitional care and humanitarian aid, Buckner International supports children and families in countries such as the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, Kenya, Mexico and Peru.
“Thank you to the Rotary Club and everyone in the community who helped meet our collection goals. Whether you are an individual who donated one or two pairs or a company that donated dozens, you have truly made a difference in a child’s life,” said Spurrier.
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About Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls:
Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®, the largest humanitarian aid project of Buckner International, provides new shoes and socks to orphans and vulnerable children in the United States and throughout the world. Since 1999, Buckner Shoes has collected and distributed more than 5 million pairs of new shoes, serving children in more than 80 countries. Thirty percent of the shoes benefit children living in the U.S. For more information about organizing a shoe drive and volunteer opportunities, call toll-free 1-866-774-SHOE or visit Buckner.org/Shoes.
About Rotary International:
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For more than 118 years, Rotary’s people of action have used their passion, energy and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end. For more information, visit Rotary.org.