The parents’ group of Palmerton Area High School’s Class of 2022 is conducting a shoe drive fundraiser now through June 1.

The approach to this fundraiser is unique in that the group is not selling a product; rather, it’s looking for donations of gently worn, used or new shoes. The parents’ club will earn funds based on the total weight of the pairs of shoes collected from Funds2Orgs, which will issue a check for the collected shoes. Those dollars will benefit the class’s all-night party.

Anyone can help by donating gently worn, used or new shoes at one of three collection site boxes: Palmerton Area High School lobby, Country Harvest supermarket, and St. Luke’s Care Now (Lehighton location only). To qualify for donation, shoes should be free of holes, tears or stains. Most shoes, including sports shoes, are acceptable except for ski boots and ice skates. All donated shoes will then be redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of micro-enterprise (small business) partners. Funds2Orgs works with micro-entrepreneurs in helping them create, maintain and grow small businesses in developing countries where economic opportunity and jobs are limited.

Proceeds from the sales of the shoes collected in shoe drive fundraisers are used to feed, clothe and house their families.

“We are excited about the different approach to fundraising with this shoe drive. Instead of asking our family and friends to buy something in an oversaturated fundraising market, we’re helping them by taking away something they no longer need or use,” said Lisa Snell Kern, Shoe Drive chairwoman. “As people clean out their closets for spring cleaning, we know that they have shoes which are no longer worn. We’d love for them to donate those shoes to our cause. By doing so, we’re raising money in a unique way, and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

In donating gently worn, used and new shoes to the PAHS Class of 2022 parents’ group, the shoes will be given a second chance and make a difference in people’s lives around the world. Shoe collection sites will be available through June 1.