TOMS Shoes: One Day Without Shoes, April 8, 2010

TOMS Shoes: "We are asking people to go the day, part of the day or even just a few minutes, barefoot, to experience a life without shoes first-hand, and to help spread awareness of the impact a simple pair of shoes can bring to a child's life."

TOMS Shoes gives a pair of shoes to a child in need with every pair purchased. It's their 'One for One' mission and business model. I've been hearing good things about TOMS Shoes for years, but I've never actually tried a pair of their shoes on. I really like the style of their vegan wrap boots (left).

Not only do I appreciate their business model and philanthropy, I really love that they sell vegan and eco-friendly shoes. Several of their shoe models are made from hemp and recycled materials. TOMS Shoes are sold locally in Whole Foods, Nordstroms, Hub Clothing, Stride Rite, Frances, Palm Creek Golf, T's Accessories, and Here On the Corner. (Yeah, I haven't heard of any of the stores listed after Stride Rite either.)

Anyway, so this post is about raising awareness for a good cause, and highlighting a business that offers vegan and eco-friendly products. This year I will be going barefoot at home and virtually. I found out about the campaign fairly last minute, and if this is the first you are hearing of it, you did too. I'd really like to see about participating in one of the barefoot walks next year (with one of the shirts below!)

TOMS also has some cute tees for sale to help people understand why you are going around town barefoot. AND! And with every t-shirt purchase, TOMS will also give a pair of shoes to a child. Same dealio as with shoe purchases.

Kristen Bell, one of my favorite vegetarian celebs, and

PETA's 2006 sexiest vegetarian, supporting the cause.