Keep Columbus Beautiful Launches Annual Shoe Recycling Campaign: "Shoe Us the Love Again!"

COLUMBUS, GA, November 20, 2024 – Keep Columbus Beautiful (KCBC) has officially kicked off its 2024 Shoe Recycling Campaign with the return of its popular initiative, “Shoe Us the Love Again!” Building on the success of last year’s campaign, this year’s goal is to collect over 30,000 pairs of shoes by January 25, 2025.

“We are excited about our shoe drive,” said Lisa Thomas-Cutts, Executive Director of KCBC. “We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they can donate to us and help those less fortunate. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Each year, more than 350 million pairs of shoes end up in landfills. KCBC’s Annual Shoe Recycling Campaign aims to reduce that number by diverting gently worn shoes away from waste and giving them a second life. Collected shoes are sent to developing countries, including Haiti, Central America, and Africa, where they are used as footwear or repurposed into new items. This initiative also creates job opportunities in these regions, providing economic support for those in need.

In addition to its global impact, the campaign raises funds to support KCBC’s local projects and programs, ensuring a lasting influence both globally and within Columbus.

KCBC is accepting gently worn shoes of any size or style, including sneakers, boots, slippers, and flip-flops. Donating is simple and convenient, with drop-off locations at the City Services Center on Citizens Way, the Columbus Civic Center, and local fire stations throughout the Columbus area.

For those who want to go a step further, KCBC encourages businesses, schools, and community centers to host their own collection bins. Interested parties can email KCBC at [email protected] or call 706-225-4008 to get involved.

The Shoe Recycling Campaign is part of KCBC’s broader “Going Green Together” initiative, which encourages eco-friendly habits like recycling, reducing waste, reusing items, and promoting litter-free lifestyles. Together, these efforts aim to preserve Columbus’s natural resources and foster a sustainable future.

“Together, we can make a difference,” said Thomas-Cutts. “Donate your shoes, adopt greener habits, and join the movement to ‘Go Green Together.’ Let’s make this campaign a resounding success.”