Scottsdale Fashion Square, part of the Macerich portfolio of one-of-a-kind retail properties in top markets, today announced its inaugural “Shop & Sole” program, in partnership with the #LoveUp Foundation and local radio personalities Johnjay and Rich. The four-week program, exclusive to Scottsdale Fashion Square, kicks off today with the goal of collecting 1,000 new pairs of shoes and socks for foster children in the local community.
“We’re proud to be partnering with the #LoveUp Foundation to bring shoes and socks to foster children in our community,” said Melanie Sutton, Senior Manager of Marketing at Macerich. “We love to see our retailers at Scottsdale Fashion Square getting involved with special causes that make a direct impact for Arizonans in need.”
Many foster children do not have access to new, well-fitting shoes. A new pair of shoes not only boosts self-esteem, but also gives the child an opportunity to excel in physical activities. The #LoveUp Foundation strives to level the playing field for kids in the foster care system, and “Shop & Sole” will help do just that.
“Shoes are very personal,” said Rich Berra, co-founder of #LoveUp Foundation. “Having something that is all yours, that is just for you, has always been at the heart of what #LoveUp tries to accomplish for the very special kids in Arizona’s foster care system.”
The #LoveUp Foundation is looking for donations of new closed-toe or athletic shoes, sizes youth 1 through adult 13. Scottsdale Fashion Square shoppers can go to participating retailers to purchase shoes and socks and drop them off at the #LoveUp donation spot, located in the Palm Court on the lower level. Johnjay and Rich will be taking 13 foster kids, ages 9-15, shopping for new shoes on Sept. 16.
“I think about these kids, and how they don’t have a parent to notice that they may have outgrown their shoes,” explained Johnjay Van Es, co-founder of #LoveUp Foundation. “This is a true #LoveUp moment, a chance to tell these foster kids that they are noticed, they are important, and they are loved.”
The “Shop & Sole” program runs through Oct. 14, with participating athletic shoe stores including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Macy’s, Crocs, Shoe Palace and Champs Sports.
To learn more about the “Shop & Sole” program and the #LoveUp Foundation, please go to http://www.fashionsquare.com/Events/Details/500211. Additional information about Scottsdale Fashion Square can be found at http://www.fashionsquare.com.
