Shoes for Orphan Souls, the largest humanitarian aid project of Buckner International, is partnering with LifeWay Christian Stores in the Chattanooga area this August to collect new shoes for the world’s orphans and vulnerable children.
“We are so excited to partner with LifeWay Christian Stores to bring awareness to the needs of vulnerable children served by Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls,” said Ashley Williamson, Shoes for Orphan Souls manager. “By working together, our hope is that we can broaden our reach to serve more children in the United States and around the world with the tangible gift of new shoes, as well as the love of Christ.”
Throughout the month, individuals and groups are invited to drop off new shoes at participating LifeWay Christian Stores in Chattanooga and Hixson.
To see a complete list of participating stores, visit www.shoesfororphansouls.com/lifeway.
The opportunity to drop off shoes at LifeWay Christian stores will take place at the same time as the community shoe drive promoted by 88.9 WMBW. The radio station will also be receiving shoe donations. For additional details visit http://www.moodyradiosoutheast.fm/rdo_promoDetail.aspx?id=55445.
According to The State of the World’s Children as reported by UNICEF, there are 148 million orphans around the world. Orphanages do not receive enough funding to support the children in their care. One of the greatest and most immediate needs is a pair of shoes. Many of the children receive one pair of shoes to last the entire year, and some don’t have shoes at all.
When an orphan receives a new pair of shoes, it communicates love and helps them know they are not forgotten. New shoes provide hope for these children that someone cares about them. Shoes also protect feet from many diseases and help impoverished children go to school, since most schools around the world consider shoes to be an essential item, said officials.
Due to customs regulations and the desire for children to receive a new pair of shoes, Buckner only accepts new shoes and socks. The greatest need is for leather or canvas athletic shoes sizes Youth 1 – Adult 7.
To learn more about the ways you can get involved, call 1-866-774-SHOE or email shoes@buckner.org