Last fall we told you about BioPed North Bay partnering with Soles 4 Souls to collect used shoes for those less fortunate worldwide.
Crystal Kaufman is in the Dominican Republic right now where they’re handing out shoes to children and seniors while teaching adults how to sell shoes.
“We actually set up almost like little shoe businesses for people, so that they have a job and they have a lasting, sustainable income,” she says.
Kaufman says it’s making a difference, especially with one woman they met who is involved with the enterprise program.
“She’s been able to create two jobs and send her two sons to University which is one per cent of people here. That’s what a pair of shoes does and that’s why it’s more than just giving a handout sometimes,” Kaufman says.
She also says they brought along toys and sporting equipment for the children too, like baseball gloves, soccer balls and skipping ropes.
Kaufman says the kids are truly happy and appreciative afterwards.
They also took part in a service project and brought solar lights to a small Haitian community.