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Shoes for Orphans collection underway locally this month
Six young girls from Fillmore are reaching out to the community to try to help orphans all over the world by providing them new shoes.
The girls, along with Elaine Huether, who takes care of the children before and after school, are always looking for new ways to help others.
In the past, they have donated nearly 100 stuffed animals to the Teddy Bear Brigade during the holidays.
"I heard about Shoes for Orphans from a friend," explained Huether. "I've been trying to teach the kids it's better to give than receive all the time."
After reading a story about a little girl who gave up her birthday party to buy shoes for orphans, the girls knew what they wanted their next project to be.
"Kids need shoes," said Huether. "Especially over in those countries where there are many diseases contracted through the feet."
For children living in developing countries, shoes are essential to good health. These children can be easily affected with such things as hookworm and other parasites, which may stunt physical, intellectual and cognitive development.
The organization Shoes for Orphan Souls is the largest humanities aid project of Buckner International. It is a global organization that seeks to make life better for not only orphans, but for vulnerable children and their families.
The group has only just started to collect shoes and plans on taking donations throughout June. There are various collection spots around the community to make it easier for those wishing to donate.
Athletic shoes, which must be in new condition are preferred and may range from infant to and adult size seven.
Although athletic shoes are best, they will take any shoes that are close toed.
The group will also be taking sock donations.
"We want to give them something new," said Huether. "A lot of these kids rarely receive anything new and share everything they have."
The children have set a goal in hopes of collecting 300 pairs of shoes.
So far only 25 have been collected, but they are hoping with the community's help to exceed that goal.
There are collection boxes currently at the Putnam County Public Library along with the Coatesville Library. There are also boxes located at the First Assembly of God Church, First Christian Church, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Church of Nazarene, the Fillmore Town Hall, Care Net in Greencastle and the Christian Supply Store in Avon.
Shoes and socks may also be dropped off at 312 S. Main St. in Fillmore.
Those interested in donating are also welcome to put a note or a photo inside of the shoes for the child who receives them.
For more information contact Huether at gloryh@tds.net.