Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sneakers for Soldiers' mission?
The mission of Sneakers for Soldiers, Inc. is to provide properly fitted athletic shoes to deployed US combat troops in Hostile Fire/ Imminent Danger Areas and Designated Combat Zones who are in need of replacing their worn out sneakers.
Are all branches of the military supported by your program?
Yes, as long as the troops are deployed to Imminent Danger Areas and Designated Combat Zones where the impact to morale and physical well-being of the sneaker support is significant.
Does the Military provide sneakers for deployed soldiers?
The US Military has recognized the fact that sneakers are an essential item for soldiers and they are in the early stages of providing athletic shoes to new service members (recruits). However, deployed soldiers are currently not beneficiaries of this new program. Sneakers for Soldiers offers us all the opportunity to show our support for our deployed troops and to do so in a way that is practical and furthers the current efforts of the US Military.
What is unique about your program?
The uniqueness of our program is that the soldiers are able to select the brand and style that best fits their feet and needs from 9 high quality athletic shoes. Ordering is customized for each soldier. We then purchase the sneakers at a generous discount, through monetary donations that we receive.
How many sneaker styles do you offer?
We currently offer nine styles of popular brands of sneakers that were based on the recommendations of deployed soldiers. These high-quality sneakers are durable and built to hold up in extreme temperatures, harsh environments, rugged terrain, and daily exercise.
Do you prefer certain brands of sneakers?
Our mission is to support the troops. We do our best to fulfill their specific requests from the nine styles of sneakers that we offer and do not favor any manufacturer brands.
Can we send sneakers to you?
We do not accept sneakers (in kind donations) Why not? Because each soldier chooses the brand and style of sneaker that is best for their feet and needs. All feet are different. All needs are different.
How much does a pair of sneakers cost?
Our average cost is $80 (retail: $135 – $145), plus $9 shipping per pair. Our shoe supplier, Bryn Mawr Running Company, provides sneakers to us at a deeply discounted rate, effectively at cost. Your donation buys the soldiers more shoe per dollar than if you bought a pair of sneakers on your own due to the discount that we receive.
How much does it cost to ship sneakers?
Shipping costs depend on the size and weight of box – average $9/pair.
What if I want to donate less than the cost of a sneaker
EVERY donation helps to purchase sneakers for our soldiers – EVERY dollar is appreciated.
How else can I help?
- Spread the word about our mission throughout your communities and social media. https://www.facebook.com/sneakersforsoldiers/
- Reach out to us for fundraising opportunities.
Will a soldier know I helped purchase a sneaker?
To further personalize the gift, every pair of sneakers will have a tag attached with a donor’s first name/state or organization’s name/state to show a soldier that you care.
Does Sneakers for Soldiers have employees?
No, we are 100% volunteer. All our board members are donors and volunteers.
Are my donations tax deductible?
Sneakers for Soldiers is a 501c3 organization, EIN# 83-2554857. Please consult your tax advisor for specific information
Can I make a Required Minimum Distribution directly from my IRA to Sneaker for Soldiers?
How are the organization’s donations spent?
We expect to continue to spend 95% of the donations for sneakers and shipping costs. The remaining 5% is used for general and administrative expenses such as: shipping supplies, website/domain fees, tags, cards, stamps, brochures, legal filings and accounting fees.