Kenneth Cole Slip On Sandals That Give Back
Image: Kenneth Cole.
With the goal of linking business to philanthropy, designer and activist Kenneth Cole has recently announced the launch of a limited edition sandal collaboration with artisans from Haiti that is tied to the five-year anniversary of the country’s tragic earthquake in 2010. On a recent visit to Haiti, Cole visited Deux Mains’s (“two hands”) workshop, which uses up-cycled tires and locally sourced leathers to make one-of-a-kind handmade sandals. This innovative Haitian social enterprise provides a sustainable income for its employees, giving them the ability to provide themselves with food, medical care, and the means to send their children to school.
Image: Kenneth Cole.
Working with Deux Mains shoemakers, Kenneth Cole reveals The Love-Haiti Sandals today to support the community. The sandals come in three different colors—blue, brown, and tan—are crafted from supple goat leather and up-cycled tires, and arrive in a stylish burlap tote with the phrase “We are in a LOVE-HAITI relationship” printed onto it.
“Since shortly after the earthquake five years ago, we have sought to play a role in helping to rebuild Haiti,” said Cole in a statement. When the disaster first struck, Kenneth Cole Productions immediately responded by launching an in-store shoe drive and shipping thousands of pairs to Haitians who desperately needed them. The company also organized an in-store fundraising program and multiple associate volunteer trips to help rebuild the community. “Although the press and cameras are gone,” added Kenneth, “the needs of the community are not. This sandal collaboration is one more step in our effort to put our foot-wear it makes a difference.”
Now you can be a part of Kenneth Cole’s Haitian community-building initiative by purchasing Love-Haiti Sandals, which are available to pre-order now at online as well as select Kenneth Cole retail stores for $79.
