PRESQUE ISLE —The United Way of Aroostook has a drive underway that won’t just raise funds for local programs, but will help people in developing nations.
In an effort that will run through the end of June, the United Way is conducting a shoe collection drive.
Anyone can help by donating gently worn, used or new shoes at collection points throughout Aroostook County. The organization Funds2Orgs will purchase all the donated goods and redistribute them in developing nations, and the United Way will earn funds based on the number of pairs collected. The proceeds will benefit Aroostook County programs.
“We are excited about our shoe drive,” said Sherry Locke, executive director of the United Way of Aroostook. “We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like donate to us and help those less fortunate become self-sufficient. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
The shoes will be shared throughout the Funds2Orgs network of microenterprise partners in developing nations. The organization helps impoverished people start, maintain and grow businesses in countries such as Haiti, Honduras and other nations in Central America and Africa. Proceeds from the shoe sales are used to feed, clothe and house their families. One budding entrepreneur in Haiti even earned enough to send to her son to law school.
Locke said an added bonus is that donating shoes will reduce what goes into landfills.
“By donating shoes to the United Way of Aroostook, the shoes will be given a second chance and make a difference in people’s lives,” she added.
Collection bins are located throughout The County, including at the Aroostook Centre Mall, the County Federal Credit Union in Houlton and Caribou, Ashland District School, Presque Isle High School, Gallagher Insurance in Caribou, The Pizza House in Mapleton and All About You Day Spa in Madawaska.
As other donation locations are added, the information will be available on the United Way of Aroostook’s Facebook page.
