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National Shoe The World Day

March 15

National Shoe The World Day

An awareness observance on March 15 dedicated to providing shoes to millions worldwide who lack access to quality footwear and raising awareness about health risks of going barefoot.

Yearly Date
March 15
Observed in
United States
Category
Awareness
Founding Entity

Donald Zsemonadi and the United Indigenous People

First Observed
2014
Origin

Institutional Initiative

The observance was inspired by Donald Zsemonadi and the United Indigenous People in Fontana, California, in March 2014. The National Day Calendar Registrar declared it to be held annually on March 15.

Institutional Record
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 26, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate National Shoe The World Day on March 15! This day was created in 2012 as a way to raise awareness and provide shoes for those who do not have access to them. It’s estimated that 300 million children around the world lack proper footwear, so this day is incredibly important. Millions of people come together every year to donate new or gently used pairs of shoes and take action against poverty, disease, and illiteracy through the power of giving.

National Shoe The World Day Timeline

2012
Creation of National Shoe The World Day
National Shoe The World Day was initiated in 2012 to spotlight the impact and importance of donating shoes for underprivileged communities around the world.
2013
First Major Collection Drive
The first major shoe collection drive took place in 2013 attracting millions of shoe donors globally, thus proving the effectiveness of the initiative.
2014
Partnership with Shoe Brands
Established brands like Nike and Adidas partnered with the initiative in 2014, encouraging customers to participate and donate their gently used shoes.
2016
Global Expansion
The event expanded its reach globally in 2016, spreading awareness and encouraging donations in more than 50 countries.
2020
Record Number of Donations
During the 2020 event, a record-breaking number of shoes were donated and distributed to communities around the world, reflective of the growing awareness and commitment of global citizens.

How to Celebrate National Shoe The World Day

1

Donate shoes

Support those in need by donating shoes to a charity or organization that serves disadvantaged communities. You can also check with local homeless shelters, schools and churches to see if they are accepting donations.

2

Organize a shoe drive

Organize a shoe drive at your workplace, school, church or community center. Ask everyone to bring in gently used shoes and donate them to those in need. You can also partner with a local charity to help distribute the shoes.

3

Volunteer for a shoe project

Search online for local volunteer opportunities related to shoes. Many charities and organizations offer programs where volunteers can help collect and distribute shoes to people in need.

4

Shop for shoes

If you have the budget, go out and buy some new shoes! Shopping for shoes is always fun and you can use this as an opportunity to support small businesses in your community.

5

Hold a shoe art contest

Encourage creativity by hosting an art contest where participants create art inspired by shoes. Ask people to submit their artwork online or hold an event where submissions can be displayed.

Why We Love National Shoe The World Day

A

It helps children in need

National Shoe The World Day is an annual event where we donate shoes to people living in poverty around the world. This day offers a chance to provide children and families with something as basic, yet important, as a comfortable pair of shoes.

B

It promotes physical health

Getting a new pair of shoes can make all the difference in protecting feet from disease or injury. With adequate foot protection, children are able to safely take part in physical activities that benefit their physical health and emotional wellbeing.

C

It creates a positive impact

By taking part in National Shoe The World Day, we are helping create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of people who may not have access to basic items like footwear. We can help ensure everyone gets the opportunity to walk in comfort and stand proudly among their peers!

Holiday Dates

Year Date Day
2023 Wednesday
2024 Friday
2025 Saturday
2026 Sunday
2027 Monday