Simpson helps out with Haiti shoe drive

NASHVILLE, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. singer-actress Jessica Simpson says she is helping Soles4Souls collect money to pay for 1 million pairs of shoes for earthquake victims in Haiti.

Simpson is teaming up with her celebrity hairdresser friend Ken Paves to raise awareness and funds for the charity, which has already pledged 1 million pairs of shoes to be distributed to Haitians during "a sustained giving plan in coordination with other agencies," organizers said.

"Let's all do everything that we can for the victims in Haiti," Simpson said. "Just $5 will buy two people a pair of shoes."

"We are so grateful to all of our partners, from individuals to celebrities like Jessica Simpson, for stepping up to help the victims of Haiti," added Wayne Elsey, founder and chief executive officer of Soles4Souls. "These people are struggling to rebuild their lives and something as simple as the gift of shoes will help give them hope through the devastation."

Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based organization that says it facilitates the donations of both new and used shoes to people in need worldwide.

Donations may be made at www.50Kshoes.com.