Ipswich-Rowley Rotary, in partnership with Paula Henrys Fitness and the Ipswich Family YMCA, donated 228 pairs of gently worn shoes to Soles4Souls (Soles4Souls.org)
Through sorting, grading, re-commerce, repurposing, repairing, and responsible end of life solutions, Soles4Souls extends the life of shoes and clothing to maximize their impact while reducing environmental waste.
In low-income countries, long-term work can be scarce. Soles4Souls works with like-valued partners to help people start and grow businesses – using donated shoes and clothing to create sustainable livelihoods. Vetted partners in-country purchase the donated shoes and clothing and resell them at a modest markup to 4Opportunity entrepreneurs and thrift store.
Here's what this donation made possible:
• Diverted 285 pounds of waste from local landfills, extending the life of these items and reducing their environmental footprint with every wear.
• Created over $2,063 in economic opportunity for families and communities around the world through Soles4Souls' 4Opportunity and 4Relief programs. This opportunity translates into essentials, education, and a path toward greater stability.
• Provided a family with consistent access to quality food, housing, and education for two full months in places like Haiti and Honduras.