The sudden popularity of Crocs in poor Haitian communities wasn't dictated by fashion. It was prescribed by doctors. Going barefoot in the rocky hills and muddy valleys of Haiti isn't just uncomfortable. It leads to a major public health problem - an epidemic of tungiasis, an infestation of sand fleas that can cause pain, itching, swelling, open sores and, if left untreated, sepsis, tetanus or gangrene.
The Good Samaritan Foundation of Haiti, Inc. made a formal application to the Croc headquarters in Boulder CO for a donation of their shoes. The intent was - and still is - to get Crocs on the feet of every child attending the Foundation's school.
Our request was granted! To-date the Foundation has shipped 500 pairs of Crocs to Ile La Vache. All of this made possible because of a private, anonymous sponsor who managed and paid for the shipping.
The Foundation continues to accept used Crocs state-side as an ongoing effort to ensure every child has footwear appropriate to the climate.
