Loving TOMS

In 2006, Blake Mycoskie developed a shoe company called TOMS after a trip to Argentina. His eyes were opened as he experienced shoeless children there. His company was seen as extraordinary, because for every shoe purchased, another pair would be given to a child in need. These simple-styled shoes provide comfort, protect children from cuts and diseases, and help children gain admittance to school. Since the formation of TOMS, the shoes have become popular for their style and for their purpose of helping children around the world

Each year, TOMS sponsors 'One Day Without Shoes'. This is a movement when, for one whole day, people go without shoes. This is to represent children that live shoeless. When others ask, "Why aren't you wearing any shoes?", the bare-footed participants are able to explain how many children go about their day without anything to cover their feet. This brings awareness to this worldwide problem and hopefully will inspire people to be a part of a momentous change.

Now, TOMS carries sunglasses. For every piece of eyewear purchased, eye care is provided for someone with sight needs. Patients that have an eye infection or disease are provided with medical treatment. Others are given prescription glasses. Sight-saving surgeries are performed on those that need a simple procedure, such as eye-cataract surgery. Beginning with Cambodia, Nepal, and Tibet, TOMS wants to help give people around the world the ability to see.