Soles4Souls® Inc. Asks Public to Join Their Response to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Victims by Donating Shoes

The shoe charity rushes to get aid to the victims of the devastation in Southeast Asia

NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Soles4Souls Inc., the shoe charity, is offering individuals looking to assist the victims of the devastating 8.9 magnitude earthquake that hit Japan last week an opportunity to help.  Individuals, retailers and manufacturers can support Soles4Souls' relief efforts by visiting www.giveshoes.org and donating shoes at the nearest drop-off location or by donating excess product to the charity.

The effects of the quake have proven to be the most catastrophic in Japan's history, with more than 10,000 estimated dead and thousands of others missing.  The charity, which was founded after the Asian Tsunami in 2004, has continued to respond to natural disasters like the one in Japan with footwear that protect victims against foot-borne diseases.  With a proven response system in place, victims like those in Japan are provided a pair of shoes that will offer hope and protection during the rebuilding efforts.

"The support we have already received from our partners in the footwear industry and the general public has been moving," said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls.  "As with other natural disasters, like the Tsunami that founded our organization, our goal is to provide individuals in desperate need a pair of shoes that will protect them from the rubble and debris and offer them a little bit of hope for the future.  We are fully prepared with a response system, so individuals hoping to do their part, can help by donating their shoes," he added.

The charity has kept a close eye on the unfolding response from the U.S. and other countries, and realizes that Japan could get hit by another earthquake in the days to follow.  The aid response will mirror the need as it unfurls, with the charity committing to a long-term sustainable difference in Japan with the gift of shoes.

For more information on how to get involved and donate to the victims in Southeast Asia, visit www.giveshoes.org.  Individuals can also text the word SHOES to 20222 to donate $5 to Soles4Souls' relief efforts.

About Soles4Souls®

Soles4Souls collects, recycles and reuses shoes from warehouses of footwear companies and closets from individuals.  We distribute usable shoes to people in need around the world (we recycle less than 2% of donated footwear).  Since 2005, Soles4Souls has given away over 13 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes (currently distributing one pair every 7 seconds).  The shoes have been distributed in 125 countries, including Haiti, Kenya, Nepal and the United States.

Donating parties are eligible for tax advantages. Visit www.giveshoes.org for more information.