News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon
News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon
In an innovative act of charitable alchemy, folks in Sisters can turn their "worn out" shoes into fresh water wells in Kenya.
Sisters businesswoman Cheryl Clemans has launched a Central Oregon drive through Shoeman Water Projects to collect used shoes. The shoes are given a second life when the Shoeman exports the donated shoes to retailers in the developing world. The resale of shoes provides jobs and affordable footwear.
Funds generated from the export of shoes provide well-drilling rigs, water purification systems, and hand-pump repair micro-businesses bringing clean, fresh water to people in Kenya.
The Shoeman is George P. Hutchings, founder of Eagle Wings Ministries, a charity dedicated to humanitarian and educational endeavors. Clemans contacted Hutchings in the course of her business, selling "virtual office receptionist" services.
"He was one of my leads," she explained.
When Hutchings described his work, Clemans' interest was piqued.
"I said, 'Shoes! I love shoes! All my friends love shoes! I think Central Oregon can help out.'"
With her characteristic entrepreneurial drive, Clemans began securing drop-off sites for shoes - and immediately donated 12 pairs of her own.
Clemans says this charity is particularly appealing to her because it is not taxing to a community that is still reeling from the effects of a terrible economic recession.
"Because of the economy, money is really hard to ask people for," she said. "This isn't asking people for money."
Donating to the project couldn't be simpler: Clean out your closet of new and used shoes you no longer wear. Tie the laces or use a rubber band to keep both shoes in the pair together. Drop off your shoes in a collection bag at a drop-off location. (No shoes with holes.)
There are drop-off bins at Les Schwab Taylor Tire Center; South Valley Bank; Papandrea's; and at the Black Butte Ranch transfer site.
Clemans is seeking more drop-off locations. Contact her at 541-771-5015.
Clemans told The Nugget that she aims to collect 30,000 pounds of used shoes - enough to fill an 18-wheeler.
The Sisters woman is full of energy and drive, which she has turned full-force on this project.
"I have a real passion for Africa," she said, noting that she has twice traveled to Morocco. "I've never been to Kenya. I am going to go put in a well when this project is done."
For more information visit http://www.shoeman.org.
Jim Cornelius is editor in chief of The Nugget and author of “Warriors of the Wildlands: True Tales of the Frontier Partisans.” A history buff, he explores frontier history across three centuries and several continents on his podcast, The Frontier Partisans. For more information visit www.frontierpartisans.com.
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