Big ideas come from small things...

...and lead to a better world….

This one emerged from a family debate (ok call it a fight) we had with our preteen daughter who is 11 going on 18. On a shopping expedition, and in a temporary lapse of sanity, I bought her a pair of trendy, over-priced boots hoping to find some pleasure in our shopping experience. Later, having come to my senses, we talked about core values and agreed to return the boots and exchange them for several pairs that would be given to those less fortunate. Before we knew it, our small idea mushroomed into the concept of a boot drive.

After doing some research, we found some compelling statistics…In Toronto close to 175,000 kids lived in poverty and over 11,000 stayed in shelters.  Clothing, snowsuits and backpacks are some of the items that have been delivered through various agencies.  Now as we prepare for the colder weather; it is time to incorporate boots into our giving.  If you, like us, have been blessed with good things in life, and want to make a worthy contribution, then this may fit the bill.  So when you are out shopping, please consider picking up an extra pair of boots in the same size that you would buy for your own children.  Together, we can spread a little warmth and generosity and make a valuable contribution to those in need.

Gently used boots are welcome.  New boots can be bought for as low as $25 and should be kept in their original boxes.  All boots can be dropped off at the following locations by December 8th:

• John Fisher Public School, 40 Erskine Avenue,
• 50 St. Germain Avenue (located 5 blocks North of Lawrence and 1 block west of Yonge Street)

For more details, you can contact Sandra Epstein at 416 712-3170 or via email at sanman@sympatico.ca. 

Comments

[Sandra Epstein]

Thanks for your feedback and comments...

Look forward to receiving your boots. In answer to question about cash or cheques, that would be greatly appreciated if it is easier, but we are a grass roots group and would prefer boots, but will not turn away any generous donations offered.

If you need me to make getting the boots to one of the specified locations easier for you, don't hesitate to call me or email me.

THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR SUPPORT

[Marnie]

Can one send cash or cheque your way?

[LAVENDULA]

hi thats a really kind thing to do.i have taken my 2 older children and my husband and we've participated in inn from the cold at our old church.i've also done project shoebox one christmas.it was fun for my children to help find the items plus some small toysfor the boxes.we are going to do that this year again.

[Catherine Soplet]

Sandra, what a great idea!

I've heard stories about the state of kids' feet when they stay in the same wet sportshoes for days on end. Warm, dry feet go a long way to help comfort a body that probably isn't covered by a warm coat, either.

Good luck!

Catherine Soplet

[Jen]

You and your daughter are amazing, Sandra. This is such an important lesson for children to learn. We will be putting out a bunch of bags for United Way tomorrow and I had a long chat with my 7 year old about children in poverty. He was shocked that there were kids right here in our city who couldn't afford essentials. Great idea. Great cause. I will definitely be buying a few extra pair of boots this year.