Giving Back in Big Ways

Many brands are finding ways to help during the COVID-19 crisis, and some have led the charge in supporting essential workers. In five days, Allbirds donated $500,000 worth of shoes to healthcare workers who asked for a pair online.  

The influx of requests for shoes was more than they could have ever anticipated. In a statement on March 24, co-founders Tim Brown and Joey Zwillinger said, “We uncovered a need beyond what we can fulfill on our own while still ensuring we balance the needs of our employees.”

So after adjusting their donation model, Allbirds started offering a “buy-one-give-one” option. It helps extend their donations to healthcare workers while also giving customers an opportunity to get involved and show appreciation for those making a difference. When someone purchases a pair, Allbirds splits the cost of the donated pair with you. When a customer chooses to donate a pair, the company will distribute it to a healthcare worker who is on their waiting list from their outpouring of emails.

Customers can also simply donate a pair of Allbirds Runners to a healthcare worker without buying a pair of their own. Normally $95, the donation cost of the Runners would be $60.

If anyone receiving shoes is unhappy with them, during this time or any time customers order through Allbirds, the company will donate all their lightly used returned shoes to Soles4Souls. And although Soles4Souls is not directly involved in this particular campaign, we are proud to partner with Allbirds throughout the year, and are inspired by their generosity and eagerness to help during this time.

“These are uncharted waters for everyone, and our challenges are dwarfed by those on the front lines,” the company wrote on Instagram. “But we’re optimistic that through your support, we can continue to make a positive impact on this crisis, together.”

Want to help provide more shoes to frontline workers? Donate here.