When we are determining costs for each of our program areas, a variety of factors are involved. We think of this cost as “factory to foot,” meaning we calculate everything from the time it leaves our brand partners’ facilities to the moment a child receives a new pair of athletic shoes. This includes things like shipping, logistics, and any other costs associated with acquiring branded athletic shoes.

Soles4Souls works directly with programs in our public schools and other community organizations that identify students who are experiencing homelessness and address their critical needs. These programs are often called McKinney Vento, or Homeless Education, programs. These partners know their communities inside and out and are already providing other resources to these children and their families. Then we can come alongside them and do what we do best: give shoes!

For 4EveryKid, we work directly with footwear brands and manufacturers to get the brand–name, new athletic shoes at a reasonable price. If you buy shoes off the shelf at a retailer and donate, your dollars won’t go nearly as far as they would if you donated directly to Soles4Souls. A $20 donation will provide one child a pair of new athletic shoes. We very much appreciate the support but would prefer that you donate funds for 4EveryKid instead of shoes.

We understand how important it is for each child to receive their new shoes as soon as possible, and our goal is always to get shoes to students as quickly as possible. Our partners ensure that the shoes are provided in an intentional and discreet manner, keeping the dignity of the child in mind above everything else. The distribution process is rolling and ongoing to accommodate our local partners and ensure accuracy in delivery. Rest assured, we are on track, and every pair of shoes is both a promise and a priority.

Since the 4EveryKid program will provide shoes to children year after year, rest assured that your donation will enable us to have a sustainable impact on your area. As donations are made for specific areas, we designate the funding to serve specific school districts and nonprofit partners in the area the funds are committed to. Exceeding our target allows us to broaden our reach, securing a foundation for expansion and ongoing/sustained support in your city.

It is our belief that anyone experiencing homelessness deserves the dignity of new, high-quality shoes. So, while we will always put your used shoes (and clothing) to work, no used shoes or clothes will be used in our 4EveryKid program.

But your used shoes continue to be as important as ever. Your used shoe and clothing donations go to benefit our 4Opportunity program to help entrepreneurs start and grow businesses that sell donated shoes and clothing in low-income countries. And while your used shoes may not go directly to the 4EveryKid program, the funds we generate from the social enterprise component of our mission finances the distribution of NEW shoes and clothing in both our 4EveryKid and 4Relief programs.