BFR Sports & Fitness is conducting a used shoe collection drive Dec. 1 through Jan. 31.

The project helps raise operating funds while benefiting microenterprise ventures in developing nations and keeping old shoes out of local landfills, according to Carole Enneking of BFR.

People can droppoff used shoes at the BFR, 215 Snider Road, Bluffton.

"Our goal is to increase our collection from last year’s drive. We collected 4,100 pairs of shoes last winter and hope to gather over 5,000 this year. Everyone is invited to gather unwanted, gently worn shoes and bring them tto BFR,” she said.

“The sport teams that participate in our winter basketball and indoor soccer leagues and tournaments will be invited to participate, too,” she added.

In the U.S. alone, approximately 630 million pairs of shoes are thrown away per year. The materials used to manufacture a pair of shoes are created from chemical compounds, the kind that will create health hazards if left to disintegrate openly or in landfills.

By donating gently worn shoes to BFR, what would have gone into landfills will be given a second chance to make a difference.

All donated shoes will be redistributed through microenterprise partners and used in developing nations for impoverished people to start, maintain and grow a business to feed, clothe and house their families.

“Since last year’s drive, we have continued to collect shoes," said Enneking.

“So many of our customers wear out their shoes participating in sport and fitness-related activities, so we feel that this project fits our mission well. The combination of diverting shoes from the waste stream and creating commerce and sustaining peoples’ lives make this a win-win for everyone,” said Enneking.

Any size and type of shoe (athletic, work, dress, boots) in any condition may be donated, as long as there is a matching pair. 

BFR hours are 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays.

Groups and businesses are encouraged to collect, as well. If you or your organization would like to participate, contact C Enneking at 419-358-4150.