TOMS Haiyan Initiative

Time flies, did you know that it has been more than a year since the Typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolanda)? And yet, there are still a lot of families undergoing rebuilding and rehabilitation, sadly many people remain homeless and lack source of income.

During the typhoon's anniversary, one of my long-time favorite brands TOMS Philippines partnered with AmeriCares--an emergency response and humanitarian aid organization. They created the TOMS Haiyan Initiative collection.

TOMS Philippines has commissioned artists from the affected areas to create limited-edition items. One of them is the creator of the special pair of TOMS I am wearing above, Boy O, a 22-year-old artist from Calicoan Island, Guiuan, Eastern Samar. Guiuan was where Haiyan first made landfall, virtually decimated the small town. Boy O had to put his pursuit of a degree in Architectural Drafting on hold, and found solace in art.

Proceeds from the sale of each pair of hand-painted TOMS shoes will go towards the relief efforts of AmeriCares in the devastated regions. I hope we get to support this collection, and artists like Boy O! Kudos to TOMS Philippines for another project with a cause.