At Stichting New Shoes, it’s about more than just shoes. It’s about humanity and dignity. Visitors are welcomed into a shop environment and treated as real customers. In this way, the foundation contributes to greater self-respect and healthier feet for a vulnerable group.
Shoes designed for life on the streets
The dream of Stichting New Shoes goes beyond donations alone. The foundation aims to develop and produce shoes specifically designed for life on the streets. People experiencing homelessness use shoes far more intensively than most: they often wear them 24/7, sleep in them, walk long distances every day, and are constantly exposed to cold and wet conditions. This calls for a completely different approach to design.
The shoes therefore need to be breathable, waterproof, and highly durable, protecting feet from health risks such as prolonged exposure to cold and moisture. In addition, the foundation strives to produce these shoes using material leftovers from the footwear industry. This not only lowers costs, but also reduces waste and contributes to sustainability.
Each pair of shoes can be unique, just like the people who wear them. No mass production of identical pairs, but shoes with character, functionality, and purpose.
A sustainable win-win-win
By using leftover materials, the shoes can be produced more affordably, last longer, and reduce waste streams. A clear win-win-win: sustainably produced, low-budget shoes that truly meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness.
From dream to reality
Everything begins with a dream — and then with a first step. The initiator of Stichting New Shoes firmly believes this dream can become reality. “Everyone I share this idea with says: this must be possible.”
To make this ambition a reality, time, funding, knowledge, and collaboration are needed. The energy and commitment are there. Now, the foundation is looking for partners, thinkers, and doers who want to help bring this mission to life.
Who will help turn this dream into reality?
Stichting New Shoes will be present at CAST during Footwear & Accessories on Monday, February 2 and Tuesday, February 3.
