Franklin church plans shoe drive

FRANKLIN — The First Presbyterian Church of Franklin is conducting a shoe drive fundraiser to raise funds for programs sponsored by the Christian Education Committee (CE).
The CE committee will earn funds based on the total weight of the pairs of gently worn, used and new shoes collected, as Funds2Orgs will issue a check for the collected shoes. Those dollars will benefit the CE programs including Church School, Vacation Bible School and Kids’ Club. Anyone can help by donating gently worn, used and new shoes at the First Presbyterian Church of Franklin, 11-13 Main Street, Franklin. All types of shoes may be donated including causal and dress shoes, sneakers, sandals, slippers, flip flops, boots (not winter snow boots), and sport shoes (cleats), etc.
All donated shoes will then be redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of micro-enterprise (small business) partners. Funds2Orgs works with micro-entrepreneurs in helping them create, maintain and grow small businesses in developing countries where economic opportunity and jobs are limited. Proceeds from the sales of the shoes collected in shoe drive fundraisers are used to feed, clothe and house their families.
"We are excited about our shoe drive," said Sharon Swiss, CE chairperson. "We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like to donate to us. By doing so, we raise money for programs such as Church School, Vacation Bible School and Kids’ Club and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities. It's a win-win for everyone.
Shoes may be dropped off at the church on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Saturday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. until noon. The shoe drive will continue until April 14.
For more information call 973-927-6444 or 201-317-6019.
By donating gently worn, used and new shoes to the First Presbyterian Church of Franklin, the shoes will be given a second chance and make a difference in people’s lives around the world.