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March 19, 2025

Shoes for a Cause: A Look at Organizations That Provide Footwear for Those in Need

Shoes play an enormous role in our daily lives. We wear them when we step out, and sometimes even while indoors. With their varied styles and colors, they bring us joy and instill confidence. However, owning shoes is often taken for granted. Many people worldwide cannot afford new shoes when necessary, and children may be compelled to wear out-of-date, unattractive hand-me-downs due to financial constraints. To help those in need, we've compiled a list of our five favorite organizations that provide shoes. We've included their mission statements and ways you can become involved.

My 360 Project: www.my360project.org

Their mission: My360Project is a non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to providing children’s shoes to millions of underprivileged kids in developing countries. Their mission is to provide shoes, create jobs, wash feet, and offer health and hope to underprivileged communities, with a focus on children in need. Their local artisans use regionally-sourced materials to build shoes, protecting children’s feet and improving their access to education. Inspired by Jesus’ servant leadership, they strive to overcome poverty by serving others. Their shoes are all handmade, locally sourced, and personally delivered.

How you can help: You can go to their webpage and donate financially to the cause or inquire on how you can create a fundraising event. And if you want to take it a “step” further - you can even go on a trip to Mexico to be a part of the team delivering shoes.

Soles 4 Souls: www.Soles4souls.org

Their mission: Soles 4 souls turn shoes and clothing into opportunity by helping people in developing countries launch and sustain their own small businesses by selling donated shoes and clothing. They also believe in protecting the environment by putting used goods to good use and keeping useable materials out of landfills.

Soles 4 Souls provides their assistance in four divisions:

4Relief - Providing new shoes and clothing to people in crisis
4Opportunity - Helping people in developing countries escape poverty through entrepreneurship
4EveryKid - Helping kids that are experiencing homelessness across the U.S. kick off the new school year in confidence.
4ThePlanet - Extending the life of shoes and clothing that might’ve otherwise been prematurely discarded.

How you can help: There are many ways you can help such as:

Donate financially online.
Donating shoes at one of their 100's of locations nationwide. You can also ship shoes for free.
Starting a shoe drive
Volunteering at a donation center.
Traveling with Soles 4 Souls to work alongside the teams that deliver the shoes.
Becoming an ambassador to increase awareness online'

Shoes that Fit: www.shoesthatfit.org

Their mission: Shoes That Fit’s mission is to tackle one of the most visible signs of poverty in America by giving children in need new athletic shoes to attend school with dignity and joy, prepared to learn, play, and thrive.

How you can help: By donating financially, donating a pair of shoes, establish a fundraiser, or become a corporate partner.

In Jacobs Shoes: www.injacobsshoes.org

Their mission: The mission of In Jacob’s Shoes is to provide new and gently used shoes, socks, school supplies and athletic gear to local children in need. Since its inception in 2009, In Jacob’s Shoes® has provided support to the following charities, schools, shelters, and agencies and has delivered over 228,288 pairs of shoes, 60,398 pairs of socks, and 11,720 backpacks with school supplies to children and families in their care.

How you can help: By donating financially, donating an item off their wish-list online, volunteer at one of their locations, or become a sponsor.

Hav a Sole: www.havasole.com

Their mission: Hav A Sole’s mission is to provide marginalized populations with quality footwear to encourage healthier lifestyles. Since 2014 we have given over 65,000 pairs of shoes in 40 cities while touching thousands of lives

How you can help: By donating financially to their website or sending in a pair of gently used sneakers.

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Ingrown Toenails: What They Are and How to Kick the Pain to the Curb

September 10, 2025

Ingrown toenails are a common foot issue that can cause pain, swelling, and even infection if not treated properly. Whether you're dealing with one for the first time or looking to prevent future problems, understanding how they develop and how to care for them can make a big difference. What Is an Ingrown Toenail? An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This usually affects the big toe but can happen to any toenail. The result is often redness, pain, and sometimes infection. Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, including: Improper Nail Trimming : Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Tight Footwear : Shoes that squeeze the toes can put pressure on the nails, forcing them into the skin. Injury : Stubbing your toe or other trauma can lead to nail growth problems. Genetics : Some people inherit the tendency for curved or thick nails. Poor Foot Hygiene : Not keeping feet clean and dry can lead to nail issues, including ingrown toenails. Signs and Symptoms Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the toenail Redness and swelling around the nail Pus or other signs of infection Warmth around the toe If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, medical attention may be necessary. How to Care for an Ingrown Toenail Mild cases of ingrown toenails can often be managed at home with proper care. 1. Soak Your Foot Soaking the foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day, helps reduce swelling and softens the nail and skin. Optional : Add Epsom salt to the water for extra relief. 2. Gently Lift the Nail After soaking, try to gently lift the edge of the nail using a clean piece of cotton or dental floss. This can help separate the nail from the skin and guide proper growth. Change the cotton/floss daily. 3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment Use an over-the-counter antibiotic cream to prevent infection. Cover the toe with a sterile bandage after applying. 4. Wear Comfortable Shoes Choose open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to avoid putting pressure on the toenail while it heals. 5. Avoid Cutting the Nail Further Trimming the nail might seem helpful, but cutting it too short can make the problem worse. Let it grow out a bit before reshaping it carefully. You should consult a healthcare provider if: The ingrown toenail shows signs of infection (pus, redness, increased pain) You have diabetes or poor circulation Home treatment doesn't improve the condition in a few days You experience recurring ingrown toenails A doctor might perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail or prescribe antibiotics if there’s an infection. Preventing Ingrown Toenails Trim Nails Properly : Cut straight across, not too short, and avoid rounding the edges. Wear Proper Footwear : Make sure your shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes. Keep Feet Clean and Dry : Good foot hygiene can prevent a variety of nail problems. Protect Your Feet : Be cautious during sports and other activities that might cause toe injury. Ingrown toenails can be painful, but with the right care and attention, most cases resolve without complications. By understanding what causes them and how to treat and prevent them, you can keep your feet healthy and pain-free. If you're ever unsure or dealing with persistent symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional care.