Nyack joins communities across the country and around the world during One Day Without Shoes to bring attention to the impact that a simple pair of shoes can have on a child’s life.
In cooperation with TOMS Shoes, ML Gifts and Accessories is sponsoring Nyack’s first annual One Day Without Shoes campaign, asking everyone in the village to go barefoot for part of the day on April 8. ML Gifts will lead a walk from its location at 75 So. Broadway to Nyack’s Village Hall at 9 No. Broadway at 4p.
Many children in developing countries grow up without shoes having to walk miles to attend school and get food, water and medical help. Our community can help increase awareness about the debilitating diseases that children’s bare feet are exposed. A leading cause of disease in these areas is soil-based parasites.
‘€œIt’s very interesting for us, as a boutique that sells footwear, to lead the charge, barefooted, in order to bring more local visibility to this important worldwide issue,’€ says Maria Luisa Whittingham, owner of ML Gifts and Accessories. In addition to hosting the event, Whittingham will donate one dollar to Friends of Toms for each person who participates in the Nyack event.
One Day Without Shoes participants will pledge their commitment, join and organize events, and connect with likeminded participants online at OneDay WithoutShoes.com. The website will also provide an forum to share videos, photos, and experiences spending One Day Without Shoes.
The problem is large but the solution is simple. Wearing shoes and basic hygiene can prevent both infection and disease due to unsafe roads and contaminated soil. By imagining a life barefoot, Nyack will contribute to the awareness of these conditions.
For more information on this event visit www.marialuisaboutique.com
or contact Marissa Danney at (845) 358-1293.
