AGRA Resources LLC and POET Biorefining in Glenville are conducting a shoe drive fundraiser now through Dec. 1 to raise funds for Seeds of Change, according to a press release.

POET will earn funds based on the total weight of the pairs of gently worn, used and new shoes collected, as Funds2Orgs will issue a check for the collected shoes.

Those dollars will benefit Seeds of Change. Anyone can help by donating gently worn, used and new shoes at the main POET office location, 15300 780th Ave. in  Albert Lea.

All donated shoes will then be redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of small business partners. Funds2Orgs works with micro-entrepreneurs in helping them create, maintain and grow small businesses in developing countries where economic opportunity and jobs are limited. Proceeds from the sales of the shoes collected in shoe drive fundraisers are used to feed, clothe and house families. One budding entrepreneur in Haiti even earned enough to send to her son to law school.

“We are excited about our shoe drive,” said Jenni Hanna, accountant. “We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like to donate to us. By doing so, we raise money for Seeds of Change, and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities. It’s a win-win for everyone.”