Sales reps Rayissa Palmer and Sandy Bodnar of Sutton Group – Old Mill Realty in Toronto recently collected gently used shoes for the 21st annual Ron White Shoe Drive. White, a local designer, refurbishes the donated shoes and then distributes them to charities such as the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the Suits Me Fine dress for success program and the New Circles Glow. Their clientele include men and women who cannot afford suitable office attire.

“My mom, Sandy, raised our whole family to donate our time to support those who are in need,” says Palmer. “This shoe drive is one way we do this. One of the charities to receive shoes, New Circles Glow, assists refugees. My grandparents on both sides were immigrants to Canada and the U.S. in the 1950s, so I directly understand how tough it can be for immigrants experiencing a different country. If we can have a small part in making someone’s new life in Canada a little bit better, we are delighted to be a part of that.”

She adds:  “As someone who is on my feet all day and night with clients, I understand the impact of quality footwear beyond mere style. Ron White’s shoes are the most comfortable heels anyone will ever wear – I can practically run in mine when I’m doing showings or open houses.”