Photo by Jessica Errera
In honor of their recent event, “One Day Without Shoes,” I’ve decided to educate you readers on the wondrous TOMS Shoes (if you’re among the few living in the library and don’t already know what they are). TOMS was developed by Blake Mycoskie in 2006 after a trip to Argentina during which he discovered how badly in need of suitable footwear the children there were. The TOMS slogan is “One for One,” meaning that for every pair of shoes you buy, TOMS donates a pair to a child in need. And from what I’ve seen, they’ve done a pretty incredible job of getting their name (and cause) out there. I don’t know what kids wear around your campuses, but I’ve yet to see a TOMS-less day here at UNC.
Intrigued yet? You should be.
TOMS has gone above and beyond just supplying shoes through their “One for One” policy. April 5th was TOMS “One Day without Shoes” event where they asked anyone and everyone interested (I got the invite through Facebook) to go barefoot for one day to raise awareness about the cause. At UNC, if you weren’t into going totally barefoot for the day, you also had the opportunity to participate in a mile-long walk from our Planetarium to the nearby town of Carborro—all barefoot, of course. Check out some of the worldwide events at onedaywithoutshoes.com and tell us in the comments how you participated at your school!
Photo by Jessica Errera
Miss the big event? No worries, you can still help out by buying a pair of TOMS for yourself, and encouraging friends and family to buy as well (they make a great gift!). TOMS come in a variety of styles, colors and patterns to suite any style—I like the Classics in Silver Glitter—and now TOMS sells shirts and hoodies, too! On a college budget the cost might be a little high (about $50 per pair) but just remember that you’re paying for two pairs: one adorable set of shoes for yourself (that are comfy, to boot) and another pair to help preserve the health of a child in need. So buy! Buy! Buy!
To buy a pair or read more about their amazing mission go to TOMS.com.
Jessica Errera is a Freshman, undecided major at The University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. She loves theatre, reading, tennis and all things FASHION. She is also a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.