The Shoeman Goes to Frontenac

George "The Shoeman" Hutchings is taking his shoe donation program on the road to Frontenac Saturday for an event called the The SHARE H2OPE Gala, a festive and philanthropic evening offering guests a chance to win autographed sports memorabilia, art from African artists, spa packages and more.

The gala will include raffles, live and silent auctions with proceeds going toward well drilling rigs, purification systems and training programs. Additionally, guests will enjoy live music, open bar and hors d'oeuvres. The proceeds from the event will help the Fenton-based  Shoeman Water Projects cover costs for equipment needed to drill water wells in Kenya and provide water, health and hygiene training.

The gala will be from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, 1335 South Lindbergh Blvd. Shoeman Water Projects, a part of the non-profit organization Eagle Wings Ministries,  picks up donated used and new shoes year round from businesses, churches, schools, special events and shoe drives. Once collected, the Shoeman exports the shoes to street vendors in South America, Haiti, India, Kenya and other places where people need affordable shoes.

Shoe resale builds the local developing economy with retail businesses and affordable shoes.  The money the Shoeman receives from exporting the shoes is used to purchase well drilling rigs, water purification systems, and other supplies to bring clean, fresh water to those who thirst.  Additionally, groups and organizations planning mission trips have the opportunity to purchase a water purification system and receive training on water purification, health and hygiene that they can pass along to the people they serve.

For more information on the organization, how you can contribute or to attend the gala, contact Jennifer Black at 636-751-8197 or Jennifer@shoemanwater.org.