Soles4Souls, Lebo’s collecting shoes for Haiti

Just got this press release in my inbox. Got me thinking about the random shoes that are falling out of my closet right now that I don’t even wear anymore. I’m sure you’ve got some pairs of shoes that you don’t wear anymore but keep around “just in case” too. Get on it and help out those in need, will ya? It’s good karma.

Charlotte, NC. (January 22, 2010) – Soles4Souls (www.giveshoes.org) and Lebo’s Inc have joined forces to bring shoes to victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

Lebo’s will help collect footwear to support Soles4Souls’ commitment to donate 1 million pairs of shoes to affected areas. Effective immediately through February 7, customers at Lebo’s Inc will have the opportunity to drop off a gently worn pair of shoes. All donations will directly support relief efforts. Please drop off your donations to any of our 7 store locations.

Soles4Souls has partnered with Operation Compassion, a charity that mobilizes support for victims of natural disasters around the world, to transport and distribute the aid. Thirty containers of supplies, including work boots, rain boots, children’s athletic shoes and clothing items, are already en route to Haiti.

“As we struggle to comprehend the magnitude of this disaster, we cannot forget how important basic necessities – such as shoes – will be in the ongoing rescue and rebuilding efforts,” said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. “We deeply appreciate the support of Lebo’s Family Shoe Stores and their customers in helping us provide shoes to survivors and volunteers as they work in horrific conditions.”

The death toll from Tuesday’s quake continues to rise, and survivors and rescuers are facing dire health conditions including stifling heat, lack of clean water, broken glass and raw sewage.

“There are lots of shoes in your closets that are not going to be worn, that no longer is one in style or they no longer fit, so those are prime candidates for someone in need”, said Mr. Jerome Levin; CEO of Lebo’s Inc.  We have been a drop off location for Soles4Souls for over a year.  It is time to make an even bigger impact.  We are reaching out to churches, student organizations, local and national businesses to help make a difference.  They are in desperate need of work boots, children’s shoes and sneakers.”

For more information on how to get involved and donate to the victims in Haiti, visit www.giveshoes.org.

Lebo’s Since 1923 – Family Shoes – Western Wear – Dance Wear

7300 East Independence Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28227 (704-535-5000)

8324 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Mcmullen Creek Market (704-295-1221)

1020 Clover Leaf Plaza, Kannapolis, NC 28083 (704-786-4818)

Akers Cnter, 1405 E Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054 (704-866-7777)

2349-73 The Market at Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732 (803-325-7700)

551 Haywood Rd, Greenville, SC 29732 (864-234-9921)

1209-A W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28112 (704-296-0306)

www.lebos.com

This article appears in Jan 19-25, 2010.