The giving shoe

MANILA, Philippines - Last Feb. 21, the YStyle team, along with some of Manila’s top fashion bloggers, caught a flight to Nabas, Aklan to give some shoes away with Toms. Toms, known all over the world for their One-for-One shoe policy, promises that for every Toms pair bought at their store, another is given to a child in need, and we definitely saw this in action on the trip.

While the Aklan province is more popularly known for the pristine white sand and crystal clear waters of Boracay, the area is still mostly underdeveloped, with many of the residents living in small, impoverished barangays. Situated in the heart of a mountain, the Tagaroroc Elementary School was badly hit by the winds of Typhoon Haiyan and was still in the middle of slow but sure repairs when we arrived for the Toms Giving project. Surrounded by lush mountain views and wide, open spaces, it was difficult not to be optimistic about the recovery of both the school and the barangay, with over 150 exuberant, enthusiastic students continuing their education despite the difficulties left behind by the calamity.

Armed with over 150 pairs of Toms alpargata shoes and the assistance of volunteer bloggers Kelly Misa, Laureen Uy, Nicole Andersson and Camille Co, as well as Giving partner Children International Philippines, Toms Giving was a truly heartwarming event. All the students, ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 6, received their own special pair of Toms as gifts, delighted at finally having shoes to wear to school (as they had previously been attending class in slippers.)

It’s good to remember that there are still great brands with a soul. Trust us when we say that buying a new pair of shoes shouldn’t make you feel guilty because a new pair of Toms for yourself is exactly what they say it is: One-for-One, and a beautiful smile on the face of someone who needs it most.