Toyota’s ‘Walk In My Boots’ program helps The Salvation Army provide aid for Baltimore families

As part of the company’s "Walk In My Boots" community outreach program, Toyota continued its commitment to support local families in need by donating winter boots and socks to help shield families from the snow and rain. On Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021, over 200 children and youth, along with their families from The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs servicing Franklin Square, Middle River and Glen Burnie neighborhoods, received new Bogs waterproof insulated boots and Smartwool socks meant to protect a person's feet from harsh weather conditions.

Toyota also donated $15,000 to The Salvation Army of Central Maryland enabling them to continue to provide support for families in need. The event is usually held during the auto show in partnership with The Salvation Army of Central Maryland.

"At Toyota, we're more than just a car company that builds great cars and trucks," said Alva Adams Mason, senior director, Multicultural Business Alliance and Strategy, and Multicultural Dealer Relations, Toyota Motor North America. "We care about the communities in which we live, work and play. The COVID-19 environment has been extremely hard on families in need, and we hope that our donation of all-weather boots and socks will help to enrich their lives…one step at a time in these times of crises. We also want the work that is being done at The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Baltimore to continue for years to come."

Winter is the hardest time of year for homeless and low-income families. When temperatures drop below freezing, or the rain and snow take center stage, people are at severe risk for hypothermia and consequences can be fatal. While many programs offer winter coat, hat and glove giveaways, a person's feet are often left exposed. Having the proper footwear can help keep feet dry, comfortable, and warm for longer periods of time.

"With the pandemic, it's even more difficult for families who are living from paycheck to paycheck to supply everyday needs as some have been forced to stay home due to loss work, or care for their children," said Major Roger Glick, area commander, The Salvation Army of Central Maryland. "The Salvation Army of Central Maryland is so grateful to Toyota for all they do and their commitment to Baltimore's children and families."

The timing of the winter boots and socks giveaway was a comfort to many as freezing rain and snow was predicted to hit Baltimore this weekend. Following social distancing guidelines, the families were also treated to a catered "Thanksgiving-style" lunch to take with them prepared by Black Tie Caterers.

This is Toyota's fifth year supporting the program in Baltimore. Overall, Toyota has donated over 1,000 pairs of boots and socks to local Baltimore families in need and contributed more than $75,000 to The Salvation Army of Central Maryland. The project has also been held in Detroit, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Harrisburg, Pa.