Shoe drive to aid those in need

The Monroe County Solid Waste Management District is sponsoring a shoe recycling program. The purpose of the program is to prevent shoes from entering landfills. Instead of landfills, they will then go to people in Third World countries who might not otherwise afford footwear. \nThe "Give Your Old Shoes A New Pair of Feet" drive begins today and ends March 30. The district is collecting casual, sport, dress or work styles made of leather, canvas or synthetic materials. Shoes of all sizes are welcome. \nAlysia Gard, who runs education programs for the district, said the program has been running for several years. Although it started as an effort to protect the environment, many people stand poised to benefit from the drive, she said. \nThe shoes will be sent to South America, Africa and the Middle East after they are repaired and packaged a textile factory in Louisiana. \nGard said anyone can donate shoes. Residents with school age children can send their used shoes to any of Monroe County Community School Corporation Schools.\nThe district will not be collecting shoes with heels, ice skates, roller and in-line skates, cloggs, "jelly" shoes, bedroom slippers, snow boots, sandals or western boots. Gard said she is working with the Residence Hall Association to allow students the opportunity to donate their shoes.\nFor more information, call 349-2051.