Soles4Souls, the shoe charity organization, said Sport Chalet has collected more than 950,000 pairs of shoes for Haiti Relief in two weeks since the program was launched. From January 14 through January 31, 2010, new and gently worn shoes were dropped off by the general public at all 55 Sport Chalet locations.
“Our customers are the best,” said Craig Levra, chairman and CEO of Sport Chalet. “They have proven, in an overwhelming fashion, that they are truly generous people who gave from their hearts. We had children, communities, schools, businesses and local organizations all rallying to donate their new and gently worn shoes. Their outpouring of support for the besieged residents of Haiti is unbelievable, and we are very grateful that we could help.”
Soles4Souls had originally set a national goal to collect 250,000 pairs of shoes and Sport Chalet set theirs at 55,000 pairs. After the first three days, Sport Chalet had collected nearly 70,000 pairs and therefore increased their personal goal to 250,000 pairs while Soles4Souls increased their national goal to 1.3 million.
“We are simply floored by the overwhelming support that our partners at Sport Chalet have received,” said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. “Their donations will be used to bring hope to the people of Haiti as they struggle to rebuild their lives. We are proud of the public for stepping up to help those less fortunate.”
