Warmer weather has arrived, which means it is time to bring out the sandals. Looking for a colorful new pair for this summer? Then check out iX (pronounced eeks) Sandals. These sandals are comfortable, fun and at the same time provide a service that you would never guess.
What would you do if I told you that by purchasing a pair of these women's sandals you could help provide clean drinking water to children in Guatemala? Such is the case when you purchase a pair of iX! The company was founded by a brother and sister, Francesca and John Kennedy.
Their parents, born and raised in Guatemala, left during the civil war in the eighties and moved to the United States to start a family in a safe environment. On trips back to Guatemala to visit their extended family, Francesca and John were troubled by the violence, poverty, and lack of education plaguing their beloved country. They discussed starting an organization to battle these issues. Inspired by the beautiful Mayan textiles and local leather craftsmanship, Ix was created.
As children, Francesca and John spent their summers in Panajachel swimming in what had been the beautiful waters of Lake Atitlan. Aldous Huxley, author of Brave New World once described it as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Over the years the area has been home to many artists and intellectuals, such as Ingrid Bergman (Casa Blanca), Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (author of Little Prince), writer and feminist Simone de Beauvoir, poet Louis de Aragon, and the Nobel Laureate and poet Pablo Neruda.
The lake is no longer what it once was. Years of pollution (agricultural run-off and sewage) have contributed to the growth of toxic blue green algae. The repercussions have negatively affected local tourism, commerce and the basic need for clean water.
Often children have little choice but to drink and bathe in the toxic water.
With every leather sandal purchased, Ix donates 15% of our profit to Charity: Water to provide clean drinking water for children in Guatemala.
I received a pair of these sandals to check out and they are fantastic! These woven sandals are comfortable (I love the extra cushion of the sole). They are made of leather and fabric and available in a variety of vibrant colors perfect for the summer sun. However, sizes run about a half a size small, so take that into account when purchasing your own pair. I love that you can help others while just walking around in sandals!
One very lucky Macaroni Kid subscriber is going to win a pair of iX for themselves! To enter, email me at maryannj@macaronikid.com or leave a comment below telling me your favorite color of iX sandals. MUST be a NW Jersey Macaroni Kid subscriber to be eligible to enter. By entering this giveaway, you give your permission to receive our free weekly e-newsletter, which you can unsubscribe from at anytime. Winners will be picked at random using random.org and notified by email on or about May 6th, 2013, at which time this giveaway will be closed. Offical rules can be found here. Good luck!
