Several weeks after the 'official' launch of Soles4Souls, Inc., a non-profit organisation whose mission is to 'make a difference in people's lives with the gifts of shoes', has reported record donations.

"We thought it would be strong but never imagined that the footwear industry, churches and individuals would step up as they have so quickly," said Paul Wilson, general manager and president.

Soles4Souls was founded by Wayne Elsey, president of Kodiak - Terra USA, Inc. based in Nashville, Tennessee. Work began after the December 2004 Tsunami when over 250,000 pairs of shoes were distributed to Southeast Asia and, more recently, over 750,000 pairs were given to the victims of hurricane Katrina.