The 14th annual She Shoe Swaps charity fundraiser broke their record this year with a total of $22,330 raised from selling shoes, boots and bags.
Kathryn Vennard, organizer of the fundraiser, said she is beyond thrilled and that events like these support really good causes.
“A combination of absolute delight and always wanting to do just a bit more so for me, the charities are the real winners,” she said.
She Shoe Swaps hosts a day of shopping for people looking to buy shoes, boots and bags. The event supports three local charities such as the S.A.F.E. Society, Shuswap Community Foundation and the Salmon Arm Rescue Unit. The event has run since 2012, where they raised $1,518 in that first year. Since 2023, the event has raised more that $20,000 each year.
Vennard said that her mother, Rosemarie Vennard was her inspiration behind She Shoe Swaps.
“The reason we started this was because of my mom,” Vennard said. Her mother passed away in 2012.
Vennard added that preparation for next years shoe swaps begins right after the shopping day. She said, though, having enough volunteers is always a concern and worry for her.
“If we don’t get the volunteers, it can’t happen so that’s always a secret worry, but I am optimistic.”
Next year, Vennard hints they may offer jewellery, but that is unconfirmed. She is incredibly excited to work on next year’s She Show Swaps and is anticipated a successful and fun event.
