TOMS Giving Returns Home – #OneForOne Now In The U.S.

I was first introduced to TOMS by my cousin who dropped a not-so-subtle hint as to what he wanted for Christmas one year — a pair of TOMS. It was the first time I heard of the brand, and while I might have questioned the fashionable look of this new foot wear, I never questioned the company’s mission. That was six years ago (a year after TOMS was founded).

Eventually, TOMS fashion grew on me. To the point that I too, had to have a pair. Not just because my purchase of shoes led to a donation of a pair of shoes to a child in need, but because while TOMS’ styles evolved so did my tastes. Plus I had to see for myself just how comfortable these shoes everyone who owns a pair raves about.

But I digress.

This post isn’t about TOMS shoes, it is about TOMS the company. It is about the foundation that makes TOMS a global company, and a household name. It is about donating 10 million pairs of shoes to needy kids worldwide in seven years and then coming back home. That’s right, TOMS has started a new chapter in its donation — a local donation in our own backyard.

One for One In The U.S.

It’s more than a company slogan, it is a mission statement that has driven the donation of shoes and eyewear in 60 countries across the world and now in the U.S. By the end of 2014, TOMS will donate 1,000,000 shoes across 35 states.

1,000,000 shoes to American children in need.

Since I founded TOMS in 2006, it has been my goal to give sustainably in the U.S. Helping kids here in America is also something that the TOMS community has long wanted us to do, and we’re thrilled that we’re now able to respond. I’m really proud of the TOMS Giving Team and its hard work over the years to improve the effectiveness and impact of our global giving. We’re now at a point where we have the learning, resources and Giving Partners in place to responsibly give in the U.S. ~ Blake Mycoskie TOMS founder

What kind of shoes?

With the One for One campaign, a pair of shoes is donated for each pair of shoes purchased. But it’s not the same pair of shoes you purchased. TOMS provides three different kinds of shoes for One for One giving. (And no, these styles are not available for sale. They are only available to U.S. children in need through the program.)

• Sports Shoes – constructed for physical activity; supplements TOMS Giving Partners’ programs targeting childhood obesity.
• Canvas Unisex Slip-Ons – all-purpose style available in a variety of colors.
• Winter Boots – Fleece-lined, waterproof, adjustable fit; built to withstand cold climates.

One for One Eyewear

In addition to shoes, TOMS launched an eyewear One for One movement two years ago and in that time has helped restore vision to more than 150,000 people in 13 countries. Now children in three states (California, New Mexico and New York) will also benefit from the One for One Eyewear giving. 

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Support the Movement

Help support the One for One movement and buy a pair of TOMS today. You’ll look stylish, your feet will thank you and somewhere in the U.S. a child will receive a much-needed new pair of shoes. Now that’s a powerful pair of shoes. 

I am bringing this post to you through my partnership with TOMS, the TOMS U.S. Giving program and sharing the news about their #OneForOne movement.