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Portland-Based Footwear Company Offers Free Boots to Workers on the Front Lines During COVID-19 Crisis

Portland, OR. Footwear manufacturer KEEN has pledged to give out 100,000 pairs of its shoes and boots, “to the workers on the front lines and the families at home fighting through the COVID-19 crisis.” Company leaders released a statement which included this message: “While shoes may not be a priority for some at this moment, making shoes that help people get outside and get the job done is what KEEN does best. KEEN is working with fans to create a movement based on helping others,” the Portland, Ore.-based manufacturer stated.

Here are the company instructions for the giveaway:

The process is to receive free boots is nomination based, so just provide your email to keenfootwear.com; instructions and a verification code will be sent almost immediately. You’ll enter that code along the nominee’s email address and a personal note (optional). KEEN will then reach out to selected nominees to obtain information including mailing address, shoe size and type of shoe or boot desired.

“The Together We Can Help initiative is fundamentally about enabling people to take positive action and build connection in a time of increasing isolation. We believe allowing people to “pay it forward” by providing someone in their community with a free pair of shoes, will help build connection at a time of great need,” said Erik Burbank, KEEN Global GM Outdoor, Lifestyle, Kids.

The KEEN Utility line is highly regarded for boots that balance ergonomics, comfort and safety, and this is a fast and free way to thank any truck or van driver, warehouse worker, or first responders. Common features include waterproof membranes, no-slip soles and lightweight carbon-fiber toes. Several were highlighted at the first-ever Industrial Wearable Fashion Show held by sister brand Industry Week last year. There are dozens of options to choose from, most named after American cities. Here are a few the company said are ideal for drivers:

Flint II Work Boot

KEEN.ReGEN lightweight midsole for superior underfoot cushioning and shock absorption
Slip-resistant EH-rated rubber outsole
KEEN.Dry waterproof, breathable membrane
Asymmetrical steel and carbon safety toe
Antimicrobial lining
Models for men and women
Sport model also available

KEEN Utility Portland Medium Duty Work Boot

KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology that flexes and folds with up to three times less torque than other work boots
Feels like wearing a sneaker, but as durable as an industrial workboot
Asymmetrical carbon-fiber safety toes
Antimicrobial lining
KEEN.KonnectFit heel-capture system offers a locked-in, securefit and feel.
Abrasion-, oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsole

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.