Toms Shoes was started in 2006 by American Blake Mycoskie. While travelling he noticed that many children in Argentina did not have shoes.  He decided to create a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes for a child in need.  Soil transmitted diseases in developing countries are rampant, while cuts and sores are entry points for bacteria.  In addition, many children can't attend school because shoes are a required part of their uniform.