An Old Pair of Shoes: Creating ESG Influence Beyond Distance

In distant East Africa, one of the world’s poorest regions with a low per capita income, up to 60% of the population is affected by the parasitic "jiggers," small sand fleas that burrow into the skin to feed on human blood. The most effective way to prevent this issue involves proper health education, maintaining clean environments, and wearing shoes to protect bare feet. Yet, in resource-scarce East Africa, walking barefoot is a commonplace reality for nearly all children.  



The Wistron Hsinchu Plant, known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and human-centric care, turned its focus to this pressing need. During the 2024 Hsinchu Plant Family Day, the plant organized an ESG-driven sustainability initiative in alignment with the United Nations’ SDG3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) goals. The event launched a charitable campaign, the “Old Shoes Saving Lives Recycling Program,” and encouraged employees and their families to actively participate by donating gently used shoes.  

The event was a lively and heartwarming occasion, with employees bringing neatly prepared children’s shoes and sneakers. One employee shared, “I’m so glad my child’s outgrown shoes can now find a meaningful purpose.” Together, everyone contributed to this impactful act of kindness.  




A total of 163 pairs of shoes were collected during the event and donated to the nonprofit organization “Old Shoes Save Lives International Christian Concern Association.” These shoes made their way from Taiwan to East Africa, where they are helping local children avoid the scourge of jiggers while extending the lifecycle of valuable resources, reducing plastic waste, and promoting environmental sustainability. The journey of these secondhand shoes not only brought warmth and hope across oceans but also supported East African children in achieving healthier, more dignified lives.