Red Wing, MN – Jan 14, 2010 – Deeply saddened by the news out of Haiti, Vasque footwear announces today that they are donating almost a thousand pairs of shoes to the non-profit Soles4Souls for immediate transport to Haiti. Soles4Souls is partnering with churches, non-profits and companies like Vasque in sending 30 container loads of emergency relief supplies to the devastated country.

“Disaster after disaster, Soles4Souls has demonstrated the ability to coordinate major relief efforts and make an immediate impact on people in need,” says Rick Appelsies, Vasque general manager.

Footwear quickly becomes a healthcare issue for those in a disaster recovery situation. People who have lost everything need shoes to protect them from contaminants and potential injury that could put them in even more danger. Soles4Souls currently works in over 45 states and 125 countries, but focuses their energies on specific emergencies when the need arises.

“This is a time for all of us to pull together and do what we can for the people of Haiti,” says Appelsies.  “The Haitian survivors made it through a horrifying ordeal only to face another. Shoes will protect their feet from glass shards, rebar and dangerous debris, allowing them to focus fully on rescue, recovery and rebuilding their lives and their country.”

Sole4Souls was founded by Rick Elsey when he was compelled to help in the devastating aftermath of the 2004 tsunami that hit Southeast Asia. The mission is simple: to change the world one pair of shoes at a time, by getting shoes to people who most desperately need them.  For more information, go to www.soles4souls.org.

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