The Cause
The disease is caused simply by walking or working barefoot in silica-heavy volcanic soil, a very common practice in rural farming regions of developing countries. This creates a large public health problem in at least ten countries in tropical Africa, Central America and northern India.
In Ethiopia alone, it is estimated that eleven million people are considered at risk, with between 500,000 and 1,000,000 people already affected. In the densely populated southern Ethiopian region of Wolaita, Podoconiosis is more common than HIV infection. Those affected suffer deformity, intense pain, and are treated as outcasts from their society, making them unable to work and make a living to support themselves through subsistence farming.
For millions, not wearing shoes can ruin lives.
The Solution
There is a solution to this global problem. Podoconiosis is 100% preventable simply by wearing shoes. The early stages of Podoconiosis can be reversed by simple foot hygiene and the use of footwear.
What we are doing to help
TOMS Shoes is working to prevent this disease by giving durable footwear to all early-stage and at-risk children in the hazardous areas of Ethiopia. The shoes given will be different than the traditional TOMS Shoes, adapted to best prevent exposure to the volcanic soil.
Everyone can make a difference with TOMS Shoes. For every pair purchased, TOMS gives a pair of shoes to a child in need. One for One.
I have had a heavy burden on my heart to do more to help causes close to my heart and to share them with you. Every little bit helps and the shoes are really cute!
1 comment:
I like the idea of Toms Shoes - but in the end would it be better to just send $70 over to Africa and buy like 10 pairs of shoes?
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