Walk a mile in my shoes

Who knew getting rid of your old shoes could help saves lives? Well, a company called Rerun Shoes hopes they can count on those of you with too many shoes to count.

Founded in 2009, Rerun Shoes, is a social enterprise with an environmental mission, promoting sustainable development by taking shoes from the waste stream and shipping them to African entrepreneurs who clean and distribute them.

Company founder, Michael Aronson, is passionate about what he feels is a call to help those in need.

“We (Rerun Shoes) believe that providing mosquito nets is a natural way for us to contribute to the better health of those in malaria infested areas,” Aronson said. “When people are healthy they can help themselves and live a more dignified life. We want to be party to anything that contributes to a better life in Africa.”

Now, Rerun Shoes is teaming up with the United Methodist Church and Imagine No Malaria. For every 100 pounds of shoes donated, Rerun Shoes will purchase a bed net through Imagine No Malaria. Churches participate at no cost.

“I am so pleased to hear about this generous offer to combine efforts,” Rev. Gary Henderson, executive director of the Global Health Initiative said. “This partnership is another great way people can get involved and save lives.”

The company hopes to receive thousands of shoes from United Methodist Churches throughout the country. They have already worked with church groups in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania and expect many more to join this movement.

“The response we have already received has been enthusiastic,” Aronson added. “I am truly pleased to be working with the UMC community and supporting the Imagine No Malaria mission.  My goal is to provide 1000 mosquito nets over the next year.”

So, clean out those closets and make twice the impact on lives in Africa!

To find our more or donate shoes, please contact info@rerunshoes.com, or by calling 413-306-4504. Visit Rerun online at www.rerunshoes.com or find them on Facebook.

To learn more about Imagine No Malaria, please visit www.imaginenomalaria.org.