“Walk in My Boots” Helps Warm Winter Feet

Each winter, clothing drives distribute coats, hats, scarves and gloves to those in need of this basic protection against the elements. Often overlooked, however, are boots and socks. To get through extreme weather, it’s vital to cover all our extremities. For kids and adults who travel primarily on foot, or use public transportation, this need is even greater.  

Since 2011 Toyota has supported the “Walk in My Boots” community outreach program, which has helped provide winter boots and socks to low-income families in cities across the United States, including Detroit, Chicago, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Harrisburg, Pa. “Toyota’s core philosophy of respect for people underlies everything we do. Providing safe, warm, winter footwear also speaks to our vision of creating mobility for all,” said Alva Adams-Mason, Toyota’s group manager, Multicultural Business Alliance and Strategy, TMNA. In Detroit alone, Toyota has donated over 2,300 pairs of boots and socks to local families.

This year, more than 125 family members from The Salvation Army (TSA) Detroit Temple Corps Community Center neighborhood received new insulated winter boots and socks as part of its annual winter community outreach effort. Says Adams-Mason, “Holding this event on the weekend we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is so fitting. Toyota’s belief in working for others supports communities and helps transforms lives, in this case, literally one step at a time.”