Here’s How the Shoe Industry Is Helping LA Fire Victims
After days of raging wildfires around the Los Angeles area, some local LA-area retailers like Bodega, Departamento, Dover Street Market, Kith, The Optimist, and Undefeated all remain closed for business out of an abundance of caution.
But as the situation progresses, many companies in the shoe industry are coming together to help those victims in need at this critical time.
Here we round up how some of the companies are helping those victims effected by these devastating fires. This will be continuously updated.
APL
“Our hearts are with everyone impacted by the fires,” APL wrote on Instagram on Thursday. “To the courageous first responders and firefighters working tirelessly to protect and serve, we are endlessly grateful. In moments like these, the resilience and generosity of our community coming together reminds us of the strength we share. As part of our ongoing commitment to our city and its people, we will be working to donate shoes to those affected.”
Soles4Souls
The Nashville-based organization is in contact with its nonprofit and school partners on the ground in the effected areas. In times of disaster like this, Soles4Souls works as second and third wave responders, letting the first responders go in and do what they need to do to assess the immediate need, while working to get supplies, including clothes and shoes, ready for when the time is right.
The Hundreds
“We cannot tell the story of The Hundreds without Los Angeles, so we stand with our community in the wake of catastrophic loss,” Bobby Hundreds, founder of The Hundreds, wrote on Instagram. “If you have been personally affected by the fires and in need of new clothing, we have prepared boxes for you at our store on Fairfax & Rosewood. To be picked up tomorrow (Friday, Jan. 10), while supplies last. ID/address requested. Shop hours: Noon-7pm. We are also accepting donations of: N95s, hygiene kits, blankets and pillows.”
Two Ten Footwear Foundation
“It’s devastating to see whole neighborhoods lost to these fires and so many homes destroyed,” Shawn Osborne, president and chief executive officer of Two Ten Footwear Foundation, said in a statement. “We’ve learned a lot responding to disasters of this magnitude before and we know those forced to evacuate are often in dire need of emergency funds to get their family out of harm’s way, find food and shelter, replace clothing and personal hygiene items. That’s why we focus on delivering financial assistance directly to footwear employees impacted by disasters within 24-48 hours. Our close relationships with companies across the industry help us respond quickly. I would add, for those who live far from these fire zones, please consider helping footwear colleagues now if you are able. Two Ten accepts donations of any amount – product donations, too – and we can help ensure your gift has immediate impact helping families in need.”