Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ron White

RON WHITE EXPANDS WHOLESALE GROUP NAMING
MAX HARRELL VP, GLOBAL SALES

 

TORONTO, ON – June 27, 2018 – Canada’s leading shoe designer Ron White, has announced that Maxwell (Max) Harrell will lead the company’s global wholesale expansion as VP, Global Sales. Celebrating 25 years in retail this fall, Ron White became famous for re-engineering footwear and creating the world’s first All Day Heels®. The unique technology can be found in his women’s and men’s collections. Harrell will focus on expanding distribution in the US and will lead the company’s global growth in European and Asian markets.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ron White

VANESSA WILLIAMS, TIMELESS BEAUTY AND ICONIC STAR JOINS RON WHITE TO KICK OFF CANADA’S LARGEST SHOE DRIVE

 

TORONTO – January 4th, 2018 – Celebrating 25 years in the business, Canadian shoe designer Ron White is proud to kick off the New Year with the launch of his 22nd annual shoe drive on January 4th, 2018.  Celebrities from around the globe including Canadians Celine Dion, David Foster, Rachel McAdams, Eric McCormick and Toronto Mayor John Tory have donated their shoes in support of the cause.  Ron welcomes new shoe donor, Emmy, Tony and Grammy nominee Vanessa Williams to this year’s drive. Beginning Thursday, January 4th 2018, the community is invited to donate gently worn footwear for men, women and children at any Ron White retail location in the GTA.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rapisardi

Ron White Collaborates with legendary Italian house for new North American Collection

“The Wrap Dress for your Feet”

August 30, 2016 — Toronto, ON – Following a limited release capsule collection exclusive to Canada’s leading on-line retailer, The Shopping Channel, the new ‘Rapisardi/Ron White’ FW16 Collection now rolls out to retailers across North America with a range of unique shoes and boots made from weatherproof, breathable vegan-based stretch materials.

 

The Italian brand Rapisardi dates back five Tuscan generations and is famous for employing technical innovation to its artisanal approach to footwear.  Today, Rapisardi is found in over 30 countries around the world, leads the industry in stretch footwear development and enjoys a “100% vegan” designation. They are members of “Animal Free Fashion” by LAV, an industry leader in vegan certification.   


Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

A Fiscal Fitting for Finance Minister Bill Morneau
March 22, 2016 — Toronto, ON – Leading Canadian shoe brand Ron White Shoes had a fiscal fitting on Friday in Toronto. Ron White was on hand with Canada’s Finance Minister, Bill Morneau, to fit him in new shoes in advance of today’s 2016 Federal Budget. In a tradition dating back to the 1950’s, Canadian Ministers of Finance purchase a new pair of shoes to wear the day the budget is delivered in Ottawa.  This year’s budget shoe was purchased by Minister Morneau’s children. The practice is seen as both “good luck” and “best foot forward” in advance of unveiling the country’s fiscal health and setting the financial agenda for the year.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ron White Celebrates 20th Anniversary of Canada's Largest Shoe Drive
January 6, 2016 — Toronto, ON – This New Year is a special one as Ron White Shoes celebrates its 20th Annual Shoe Drive, the largest in Canada. Torontonians and Canadian celebrities from Russell Peters, Celine Dion, Hayden Christensen, Mayor John Tory and many more have donated their shoes to raise awareness. Beginning Thursday January 7, 2016, people are invited to donate gently worn winter footwear for men, women and children at any Ron White Shoes retail location in the GTA.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Step into a new pair of Ron White shoes Oct 2-4 and see $25 go to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
October 1, 2015 — Toronto, ON – Leading Canadian shoe designer Ron White is pleased to partner with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. From October 2-4th, all Ron White stores will donate $25 for each pair of women’s shoes sold from the Ron White Collections directly to the CBCF. An initiative of the RON WHITE Foundation, Ron is proud to have partnered with the CBCF’s annual fundraising efforts for the last 19 years.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ron White Shoes Opens in Leaside: Canada's ShoeRu Celebrates his Fifth Boutique
May 22, 2015 — Toronto, ON – Fresh off his international shoe tour that started in California and culminated with Holts appearances in Edmonton and Montreal, Ron White continues his hectic pace with the opening of his fifth bricks and mortar boutique in Leaside this May. With over 20 years of experience in the shoe industry, Ron has exclusive wholesale partnerships with Holt Renfrew, Klienfeld and Hudson’s Bay as well as Zappos and a number of leading US independent retailers. With his own retail locations inside the Manulife Centre, Sherway Gardens and Bayview Village, the new Leaside store joins his downtown Oakville boutique as a street-front neighbourhood destination for beautiful shoes that feel wonderful.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Share Your Shoes: Be Part Of Canada's Largest Shoe Drive
January 7, 2015 — Toronto, ON – Kicking the new year off right, the Ron White Foundation launches its 19th Annual Shoe Drive with Toronto’s Mayor John Tory. The Mayor joins generous Canadian celebrities including Rachel McAdams, Celine Dion, Sarah McLaughlin, Eric McCormack and more who have donated their shoes for those in need. Beginning Wednesday January 7, 2015, people are invited to donate gently worn shoes and boots for men, women and children at any Ron White Shoes retail location in the GTA.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Step into a new pair of Ron White shoes Oct 10-12 and see $25 go to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
October 8, 2014 — Toronto, ON – Leading Canadian shoe designer Ron White is pleased to once again partner with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. From October 10 to October 12, all Ron White stores will donate $25 from each pair of women’s shoes sold from the Ron White Collections directly to the CBCF.

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ron White Kicks off the Year with Canada’s Largest Shoe Drive and New Retail Partners for Spring 2014
January 9, 2014 — Toronto, ON – Opening an exciting year, The Ron White Foundation launches the 18th year of Canada’s largest shoe drive with the generous support of celebrity friends including Rachel McAdams, David Spade, Sarah McLachlan, Celine Dion, Matt Damon, Kevin Spacey, Hilary Duff, Jeanne Beker, Laureen Harper among others. Beginning Thursday January 9, 2014, Ron White invites the city of Toronto to follow in the footsteps of their favourite celebrity and donate their gently worn shoes and boots at any Ron White retail location in the GTA...

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Conde Nast’s Independent Retailer of the Year
Ron White, Launches 16th Annual Shoe Drive for those in Need

January 3, 2012 -- Toronto, ON -- The Ron White Foundation kicks off its 16th year of Canada’s largest shoe drive with the support of Emmy nominated show casts including Glee’s Max Adler and Josh Sussman, Modern Family’s Rico Rodriguez, Hawaii 5-0 and Lost’s Terry Quinn, Mad Men’s Robert Morse, Dancing with the Stars’ David Arquette, Entourage’s Debi Mazar and Canada’s very own Catherine O’Hara. These big hearted celebrities, along with Twilight’s Tinsel Korey, The King’ Speech’s David Seidler and ZZTop front man Billy Gibbons have all signed and donated their shoes in support of Ron White. Beginning January 6 2012...

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Wear Your Heart On Your Sole with Ron White’s ‘Robin Passion Pink’ Pump
Throughout October $100 from each pair sold will be donated to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

August 18, 2011 -- Toronto, ON -- Leading Canadian shoe designer Ron White is pleased to once again partner with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. The 15th Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser, an initiative of the Ron White Foundation, will see all 7 RON WHITE retail locations and The Room at The Bay on Queen Street in Toronto, carrying the Robin Passion Pink pump from Ron White’s Fall 2011 Signature Collection. Throughout the month of October, $100 from every pair sold will be donated to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation...

Read more...

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Treating the Well-Heeled: Ron White Shoes New Flagship Opens at Yorkdale Shopping Centre

May 18, 2011 - TORONTO, ON - Ron White Shoes is pleased to officially open its new flagship location in Canada’s premiere shopping designation: Yorkdale Mall. A chic, contemporary and new design, this over 3,000-square foot store also features Ron White’s first ever Signature Salon, showcasing his red-carpet ready designs as unveiled at the 68th annual Golden Globe Awards in January. The store’s new concept incorporates four rooms and a cluster of collections within these spaces to cater to a specific and varying clientele and their tastes.

"This new concept is all about delivering to our clients what they have been asking for - it’s an evolution of our concept and our brand," said CEO & Creative Director Ron White. "Retail must be a continual evolution to stay fresh and exciting."

Ron recently returned from the International Footwear CEO’s Summit where he received acclaim for this fresh new retail approach from the world’s leading footwear CEOS and heavy weights including new friend John Varvatos. Varvatos’ award winning men’s collection is now available at Ron White Shoes, along with the hotter than hot handbag line from Badgley Mischka, hailed by Vogue as one of the "Top 10 American Designers."

"I am so pleased and proud to see this store become a reality! Opening a flagship in Canada’s leading mall has long been a goal and it’s truly a dream come true," said White. "It’s already been an incredible and head-spinning year for my entire team with new and reimagined spaces at Bayview Village, downtown Oakville, a new e-boutique and now Yorkdale, while at the same time my RON WHITE collections launch at stores across North America in July for a full-on fall launch into wholesale - including The Bay and Lord & Taylor, New York."

Ron White Shoes now carries over 100 styles of Ron’s three collections: All Day Heels, Signature and Men’s. Ron White stores also carry the largest selection in Canada of boots, shoes and sandals from The Frye Company, as well as a beautiful assortment of new summer merchandise from select designers, including Bernardo, Cole Haan, Lisa & Donald Pliner, Hunter boots, Stuart Weitzman and Thierry Rabotin.

"This year, 2011, is truly a highlight of my over 20 years in the shoe business," said White. "To have attended the Golden Globes to unveil my new collection, the new stores and now to also have leading retailers in Canada and the US excited about my line - it’s all still a little surreal!"

For more information, photos of the store or samples, please contact:
Deb McCain Communications
416-402-5681
deb@debmccain.com

For more information about The Ron White Foundation’s White Knight Gala event on June 1, 2011 please go to www.whiteknightgala.com

ABOUT RON WHITE SHOES
Ron White is a leading Canadian footwear retailer, famous for fashion shoes that feel wonderful. Having first opened his doors in 1993, the current RON WHITE concept was born out of client demand for style-savvy shoes that were comfortable. Dubbed as "Canada’s Shoe-ru", Ron is a regularly featured fashion expert in both Canadian and international media. Renowned for his All Day Heels®, exclusive designer relationships, custom styles and a loyal celebrity following, Ron has become the ultimate resource for the world’s most unique collection of luxury comfort shoes. www.RonWhiteShoes.com

ABOUT THE RON WHITE FOUNDATION
In 2009, Ron founded The RON WHITE FOUNDATION as a way to give back to the community. The Foundation, a registered Canadian chary, hosts an annual fundraising gala entitled ‘White Knight’ which focuses on raising funds, awareness and education for human rights based issues. Through RON WHITE stores, the Foundation runs Canada’s largest Shoe Drive for those in need and an annual Breast Cancer fundraiser.In addition to hosting annual charity events, a portion of the proceeds from every pair of shoes in the RON WHITE Collections (All Day Heels®, Signature and Men’s Collection) goes back to the Foundation to help individuals in need. www.WhiteKnightGala.com

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CELINE DION, DAVID FOSTER, PAUL ANKA, CHARICE, NIKKI YANOFSKY

and THE CANDADIAN TENORS MAKE THEIR SHOES SING:    

RON WHITE’s 15 th ANNUAL SHOE DRIVE

January 4, 2011 -- Toronto, ON –   The RON WHITE Foundation kicks off the fifteenth year of Canada’s largest shoe drive this week on January 6 th with the support of music legends Celine Dion, David Foster, Paul Anka , The Canadian Tenors, and prodigious newcomers Nikki Yanofsky and Charice.  All have signed and donated their shoes to support Ron as he encourages people to “Follow in the Footsteps of their Favourite Celebrity” and donate their gently worn shoes and boots to those in need.

All donations are welcome beginning Thursday, January 6th and will be collected through Sunday, February 13 that all five RON WHITE locations across the Greater Toronto Area. An additional collection depot is located on the Avenues Level of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto. Shoes and boots collected in all locations will be sorted, cleaned and distributed to shelters and organizations in need.  This year’s charity partners include: Dress for Success, Street Health, Halton Place, Out of the Cold and Ve' ahavta.

Ron White will officially kick off the Shoe Drive at his Manulife location on THURSDAY JANUARY 6 th at 1PM .  The kick off event will unveil all new celebrity donations as well as display the shoes of past celebrity supporters including Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons, Matt Damon, Mia Farrow, Robert Kennedy Jr, Hilary Duff, Eric McCormack, Michael Cera and more.  Following the kick off event, celebrity shoes and pictures are distributed to all RON WHITE store windows to help raise awareness and encourage donations.  As part of this year’s crystal anniversary, Ron will be collecting a number of new celebrity donations while at the Golden Globe Awards in Los Angelesin mid-January.

"I am proud to welcome so many members of music royalty to this year’s crystal anniversary of the shoe drive – I never imagined having such incredible support!  I am always looking for new celebrity donations and I’m thrilled to say that now I have people approaching me to help out and be a part of it!  It really is amazing!” said CEO and Creative Director Ron White.  “Last year we surpassed our collection goal but we can do better! I’m asking everyone to look in their closets and to find some winter shoes with life left in them -- bring them to us and we will get them to those in need.”

An initiative of the RON WHITE Foundation, The RON WHITE Shoe Drive is the largest of its kind in Canada and over the last 15 years has collected and given back more than 21,000 shoes and boots for the men, women and children.

All cameras welcome

Thursday, January 6 th at 1PM

RON WHITE, MANULIFE

 

For more information, please contact -
Deb McCain Communications
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ron White Unveils his Signature Collection at 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards

 

Canada’s “Shoe-ru” Introduces World’s First All Day Heels® Technology to USA Read More...  

 

ABOUT RON WHITE:

Ron White is the CEO and Creative Director of RON WHITE Shoes, a leading Canadian footwear retailer famous for fashion shoes that look fabulous and feel wonderful.  With over 20 years in the industry and a background in biomechanics, orthotics and fashion footwear, Ron dreamt of a new generation of heels, one that actually looked great and felt fantastic. After 4 years of testing, the world’s first All Day Heels® were born and they have changed the shoe industry forever by pairing cutting-edge technology with unique materials and constructions to make a fashion heel that feels wonderful all day long.  Ron built on the continued success of his All Day Heels® Collection with a sleek and stylish RON WHITE Men's line and as of Spring 2011 unveils his newest Signature Collection. The RON WHITE Signature Collection takes inspiration from the world of couture and pairs this elegance with his unique All Day Heels® technology. With a strong celebrity following, Ron is often called “Canada’s Shoeru” and is a regularly featured fashion expert in both Canadian and international media.  Ron has become the “go to” expert and provides ongoing commentary to a number of media including Fashion Television, eTalk Daily, ET Canada, Breakfast Television, The National Post and a number of other publications. For more information, go to www.RonWhiteShoes.com.

ABOUT THE RON WHITE FOUNDATION

The RON WHITE Foundation was created in 2009 as a way to give back to the community. The foundation, a registered Canadian charity, focuses on raising funds, awareness and education for human rights both locally and internationally. The Foundation hosts an annual fundraising gala entitled ‘White Knight’ and through RON WHITE stores, the Foundation runs Canada’s largest Shoe Drive and an annual Breast Cancer fundraiser. In addition to hosting annual charity events, Ron White donates a portion of the proceeds from every pair of shoes in the Ron White collections (All Day Heels®, Signature and Men’s collection) to the foundation and to those in need. For more information on the Ron White Foundation and the annual events listed above, please visit: www.RonWhiteFoundation.com.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Press Releases 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RON WHITE LAUNCHES CANADA’S FIRST FRYE POP-UP STORE WITH

MICHAEL PETRY – DESIGN DIRECTOR, THE FRYE COMPANY

TORONTO, October 4, 2010 - Ron White, famous for his All Day Heels®, is catering to the well-heeled once again – with an urban-western twist. On October 5 th, he is launching Canada’s first Frye pop-up store at his flagship Manulife Centre location with the Frye Company’s Design Director, Michael Petry. The pop-up will offer over 100 new styles and designs never before seen in Canada including the Carson Pull On in an array of colors, several Deborah Studded boots and selections from the hair-calf collection. Open to the public October 6 thru October 24, the pop-up will feature vintage steamer trunks, antique wood displays, various hides and rugs along with other imported Frye furnishings inside the RON WHITE Manulife store.

“As a key partner with The Frye Company in Canada, I’m excited to kick off this year’s ‘boot season’ with a bang” says Ron White, CEO and Creative Director, RON WHITE Shoes. “Our customers love classic brands and this ‘pop-up’ offers a unique opportunity to offer many sought-after and exclusive styles from Frye. I’m thrilled that a number of our VIP customers will get a chance to meet Micheal as we launch three Frye-Filled weeks at RON WHITE in the Manulife Centre!”

Ron White Shoes carries the largest selection of Frye product in eastern Canada and, now with the pop-up, will carry the largest selection in Canada. The pop-up will carry new styles of boots, shoes and handbag designs, all finely crafted from rich leathers and quality hardware.

“Frye products are known for their quality and craftsmanship and have always possessed a vintage American feel,” says Michael Petry, Design Director of the Frye Company. “It’s great to have a trusted and like-minded partner in Ron White who sees the potential for growing our brand reach here in Canada. I look forward to meeting more Canadian Frye fans during my visit and sharing my inspirations for many of the new and classic designs.”

Michael Petry began his career in footwear at Adidas USA working with amateur and professional athletes. He was senior design director for Ralph Lauren footwear when he was personally recruited by Patrizio Bertelli to join Prada. Petry worked in Italy as the senior design director for Prada S.p.A. before joining the Frye Company in 2007.

Along with the many new Frye designs, VIP customers will have an exclusive chance to take a sneak peek of Ron White’s inaugural Signature Collection, unveiling for Spring 2011.

For more information, please contact:

Deb McCain Communications
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com 

ABOUT RON WHITE

Ron White is a leading Canadian footwear retailer, famous for his All Day Heels®. With over 20 years in the industry and backgrounds in both biomechanics and fashion, Ron has created All Day Heels ® by pairing cutting edge technology with unique materials and constructions.   For more information, go to ronwhiteshoes.com.

ABOUT THE FRYE COMPANY

Founded in 1863, The Frye Company has always taken great pride in producing quality leather products. Frye boots and shoes are benchcrafted from the finest full grain leather uppers with genuine leather and rubber soles. It takes more than 190 steps to make a pair of Fryes. A respected slice of our country's heritage, Frye proudly continues to celebrate enduring American style. For more information, please visit The Frye Company website at thefryecompany.com.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Could a Cure be in the Bag? RON WHITE offers

Limited Edition Shoe Travel Bag for October

100% of proceeds to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

September 29, 2010 - Toronto, ON - RON WHITE shoes, Canada's leading footwear retailer and the home of All Day Heels™, announced today that it has once again teamed up with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

The 14th Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser, an initiative of the RON WHITE Foundation, will see all RON WHITE locations and the e-boutique selling the limited edition shoe travel bag throughout the month of October. One hundred percent of the proceeds $20. will be donated to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. This year’s limited edition bag is luxurious, lined and featured in gorgeous crushed blue velvet – the “It” colour for the season.

Breast Cancer

 

 

 

 

"The bag is a salute to my aunt and to all breast cancer survivors," said Ron White, CEO and Creative Director of RON WHITE shoes. "So many of my friends and fashionistas have told me that our shoe bags are indispensable – last year we sold out before month end!! Even Sarah, Duchess of York, said she wouldn’t let her shoes travel any other way – and she picked up 14!"

Just in time for winter, the limited edition shoe bag is ideal for travel or for carrying one’s precious footwear to work, the theatre or a dinner party. The limited edition shoe travel bag is also a perfect holiday stocking-stuffer and gift item - all the while supporting a great cause!

To view this season’s limited edition shoe travel bag and to get one while supplies last, please visit: RonWhiteshoes.com.

For more information, please contact -
Deb McCain Communication’s
416-402-5681
deb@debmccain.com

___________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RON WHITE Spring 2010: Platforms Invade All Day Heels®

and Legacy Brands (Frye, Bernardo) Surge

Canada ’s ShoeRu takes it to The Next Level

MARCH 29, 2010 – TORONTO, ON – Spring has sprung at RON WHITE SHOES and this season Ron has taken it to the next level with his largest, highest and hottest collection of All Day Heels®, featuring the first-ever platform footbed, along with platforms on a wedge, hidden platforms and exposed platforms. Spring is all about Height, Height, Height!

As Ron’s All Day Heels® collection grows beyond 60 styles this season, Canada’s Shoe-Ru is also planning for a continued surge in popularity of several legacy brands.  This spring RON WHITE SHOES will be carrying the largest collection of Frye in Eastern Canada and Ron will compliment that with the Canadian relaunch of Bernardo. Best known for their patented Miami Flip Flop, Bernardo designs were created by renowned designer Bernard Rudofsky, considered
by many to be the father and inventor of the modern day sandal.  Many Bernardo styles carry a patent number, meaning they are virtually impossible to “knock off”, something almost unheard of in today’s marketplace.  The brand was a favourite of the jetset of the 60’s and 70’s – Jackie O was said to own 60+ pairs!  The launch of Bernardo at RON WHITE SHOES coincides with the brand’s return to the US at leading retailers including Neiman Marcus and Fred Segal Feet.  The collection at RON WHITE SHOES includes a number of Bernardo’s iconic styles as well as fresh updates, many of which have become popular in Hollywood and seen on starlets including Halle Berry, Hillary Duff and Reese Witherspoon.

“The vintage trend continues and the surge of legacy brands like Frye and Bernardo will help to define the looks we’ll see this spring and summer,” said CEO and Creative Director Ron White.  “And platforms are taking it to the next level – hidden, exposed and on a wedge – my All Day Heels® will prove that no one has to suffer for fashion anymore!”

All Day Heels ®, Bernardo, Frye and all other Spring 2010 collections are now available at all 6 RON WHITE locations across the GTA as well as through the e-boutique at RonWhiteshoes.com

For more information please contact:

Deb McCain Communications
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com

ABOUT RON WHITE

Ron White is a leading Canadian footwear retailer, famous for his All Day Heels®. With over 20 years in the industry and backgrounds in both biomechanics and fashion, Ron has created All Day Heels ® by pairing cutting edge technology with unique materials and constructions.   For more information, go to ronwhiteshoes.com.

ABOUT THE RON WHITE FOUNDATION

The Ron White Foundation focuses on raising funds, awareness and education for human rights based issues both locally and internationally. The Ron White Foundation is a culmination of Ron’s philanthropic endeavors, including his annual Breast Cancer fundraiser, Canada’s largest shoe drive for the Homeless and White Knight, a fresh fundraising event.  For more information, go to whiteknightgala.com.

____________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ron White Welcomes New Charities and Celebrities to his
14th Annual Shoe Drive for the Homeless
Academy Award Winners Matt Damon and Kevin Spacey join efforts

January 5, 2010 -- Toronto, ON - RON WHITE, Canada's leading footwear retailer, announced today that it will partner with Academy Award winners Matt Damon and Kevin Spacey, as well as legendary actress and humanitarian Mia Farrow, activist and environmentalist Robert Kennedy Jr., Will & Grace star Eric McCormack, Little Mosque on the Prairie star Zaib Shaikh, entrepreneur and Dragon’s Den star Arlene Dickinson, Canadian actresses Kristin Booth and Tara Spencer-Nairn and Battle of the Blades stars Jodeyne Higgins and Sean Rice to unveil their shoes for its 14th Annual Shoe Drive for the Homeless. The Ron White Foundation is also pleased to welcome new charitable partners Dress for Success and Street Health to Canada’s largest shoe drive.

The month-long event kicks off on Thursday, January 7 that RON WHITE's flagship Manulife location and will run through Sunday, February 14 that all six RON WHITE store locations. This year, an additional collection depot has been added on the Avenues Level of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. Shoes and boots collected in all locations will be sorted, cleaned and distributed to shelters in need across the GTA.

"I am so proud to see our shoe drive grow to this magnitude - when this all started 14 years ago I had no idea that it would become Canada’s largest shoe drive! The response has been so overwhelming that this year we are adding new charitable partners, a new collection depot and new celebrities to help support our efforts,” said Ron White, CEO and Creative Director of RON WHITE. “We have already collected and distributed over 18,000 shoes but in this difficult economy, the need is greater than ever. I’m asking everyone to look in their closets and to find some winter shoes with life left in them, the ones they just don’t wear anymore. Bring them to us and we will get them to those in need.”

All new donors’ shoes will be unveiled at the kick off event Thursday January 7 th at the RON WHITE Manulife store. Each celebrity donor has autographed and donated their gently worn shoes to RON WHITE and several will be in attendance with Ron at the 1PM kick off. All new and alumni celebrity shoes will then
be disbursed and displayed in the windows of all six RON WHITE stores in an effort to raise awareness, encourage everyone to “follow in the footsteps of their favourite celebrity” and help the homeless just as winter’s worst hits. Past RON WHITE Shoe Drive alumni include musical talents Chantal Kreviazuk, Hilary Duff and Suzie McNeil, actors Jeremy Irons, Michael Cera and Hayden Christensen, Olympic athletes Brian Orser, Kurt Browning and Adam Van Koeverden and countless Canadian media personalities, including Monika Schnarre and Ben Mulroney.

RON WHITE'S Shoe Drive for the Homeless is the largest of its kind in Canada and over the last 13 years has collected and distributed more than 18,000 shoes and boots for the men, women and children across the GTA. An initiative of the Ron White Foundation, the 14 th Annual Shoe Drive for the Homeless has partnered
with the Out Of The Cold program, Dress for Success, Street Health and Halton Women's Place.

All cameras are welcome at the kick off event Thursday, January 7 th at 1PM At RON WHITE, Manulife.

For more information, photos or to schedule an interview, please contact -
Deb McCain Communications
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com

 About The Ron White Foundation:

The Ron White Foundation is a registered charitable foundation that focuses on raising funds, awareness and education for human rights based issues locally and internationally. Over the past 13 years, through his stores, Ron has operated an annual fundraiser in partnership with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
and has run Canada’s largest Shoe Drive for the Homeless. In 2009, Ron assembled a talented and seasoned Advisory Board to help bring about White Knight, a fresh fundraising gala whiteknightgala.com, in aid of human rights based charities. These three initiatives form the core activities of the Ron White Foundation.

About RON WHITE:

RON WHITE is a leading Canadian footwear retailer, famous for fashion shoes that feel wonderful. Having first opened its doors in 1993, the current RON WHITE concept was born out of client demand for style-savvy shoes that were comfortable. Dubbed as Canada's very own 'Shoe-ru', Ron White has become a regularly featured fashion expert in both Canadian and international media. Renowned for creating All Day Heels®, exclusive designer partnerships and a loyal celebrity following, RON WHITE is the shopping destination for the most unique collection of shoes. To view the collections, visit one of the six RON WHITE store locations or shop online at ronwhiteshoes.com.

_________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Press Releases 2009

RON WHITE TO CHANGE WOMEN’S LIVES FOREVER…

Introducing for FALL 2009

RON WHITE’s ALL DAY HEELS ®

October, 2009 – TORONTO, ON -- With over 20 years in the industry and backgrounds in both biomechanics and fashion footwear, Ron White has created the first ever All Day Heels® collection, only available at RON WHITE RonWhite.ca. These next generation shoes incorporate unique constructions, materials and
cutting edge technologies – finally making a fashion heel feel wonderful all day.

Ron White’s Signature All Day Heels® are specifically designed with the busy, fashionable career woman in mind. Styles are tailored to a woman who wants to look fantastic but is on her feet all day – and often into the evening. All Day Heels® are the answer to the fashion challenges of a busy work and social life – for the woman who has it-- or wants to look like she has it all.

Ron’s early career found him working in biomechanics/orthotics as well as in the fashion shoe world. Over the years, he found fashion clients were always seeking more comfort, while orthopedic clients were always seeking more style. Out of this, the RON WHITE concept was born: fashion shoes that feel wonderful. The first RON WHITE store opened in March 1993 on Yonge St. Starting with VISA cash advances and a few small loans from family, Ron sought to bring his dream to life. Today there are six RON WHITE stores in the GTA and an e-boutique which ships across the globe.

As CEO and Creative Director of RON WHITE, Ron works with designers ranging from Stuart Weitzman and Thierry Rabotin to Donald Pliner and The Frye Company to tweak their designs to his specifications, allowing RON WHITE stores to offer unique products not available anywhere else in the world.

“Ron White is the perfect example of the entrepreneurial independent retailer who uses creativity to get his message to the customer and incorporates his personality into creating a brand image for his stores,” said Stuart Weitzman. “Our industry could use dozens more like him.”

Following three years of development and trials with twelve factories producing prototypes and styles, Ron has finally brought his dream shoes to life - All Day Heels®. “From the beginning of time, women have always wrestled with negotiating between fashion or comfort in their shoes – with the creation of All Day Heels®, women’s lives will be changed forever” said White. “This isn’t a new style of shoe – this is a birth of a whole new category.”

For more information or to obtain photos or samples please contact:

Deb McCain Communications:
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com

ABOUT RON WHITE

Ron White is a leading Canadian footwear retailer, famous for fashion shoes that feel wonderful. Having first opened his doors in 1993, the current RON WHITE concept was born out of client demand for style-savvy shoes that were comfortable. Dubbed as “Canada’s Shoe-ru”, Ron is a regularly featured fashion expert in both Canadian and international media. Renowned for his signature collection of All Day Heels®, exclusive designer relationships, custom styles and a loyal celebrity following, Ron has created a shopping destination for the world’s most unique collection of shoes.

ABOUT THE RON WHITE FOUNDATION

Incorporated in 2009, THE RON WHITE FOUNDATION focuses on raising funds, awareness and education for human rights based issues both locally and internationally. The Foundation puts on the White Knight Gala whiteknightgala.com in support of a chosen charity each year. The May 2009 inaugural event was a sold out success – raising funds for Free The Children’s GO Local program [www.freethechildren.org] supporting at-risk youth in Toronto schools.

RON WHITE has been conducting annual fundraisers for over fourteen years. The stores host Canada’s largest shoe drive for the homeless every winter, with the help of many national and international celebrities. RON WHITE also raises funds for breast cancer every October (in honour of Ron’s aunt) by selling a limited edition designer shoe bag.  

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 30, 2009

RON WHITE Shoe Bags Support

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

-100 per cent of proceeds of limited edition shoe bag to be donated-


Toronto , ON
RON WHITE, Canada ’s leading footwear retailer, announced today that it has once again teamed up with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

Throughout the month of October, all 6 RON WHITE locations, as well as the e-Boutique, will be hosting their 13th Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser: A Step Towards a Cure is in the Bag and will be donating 100 per cent of the proceeds $20 taxes included of a luxurious travel shoe bag to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. This year’s limited edition bag is featured in a black silky faux fur embroidered with the pink ribbon symbol.

The event is a salute to my aunt, who has survived breast cancer twice and is still with me today , “ said Ron White, CEO and Creative Director of RON WHITE. “I am continually inspired by her courage and hold this very important cause close to my heart. She loaned me the money to start this company and I wouldn’t be in business today without her.”

Just in time for the upcoming winter season, the bag is ideal to travel with or carry your precious footwear to work, the theatre or a dinner party.  It’s also a perfect holiday stocking-stuffer and gift item – and supports a great cause! To view the limited edition RON WHITE travel shoe bag, visit: ronwhite.ca/Shoe-Bag-for-Breast-Cancer-P1142C0.aspx

About RON WHITE:

RON WHITE is a leading Canadian footwear retailer, famous for fashion shoes that feel wonderful. Having first opened in 1993, RON WHITE was born out of client demand for style-savvy shoes that were comfortable. Today there are six RON WHITE stores in the GTA and an e-Boutique which ships around the world. Dubbed as “ Canada’s Shoe-ru”, CEO and Creative Director Ron White is a regularly featured fashion expert in both Canadian and international media. Renowned for his signature collection of All Day Heels®, exclusive designer relationships, custom styles and a loyal celebrity following, Ron has created a shopping destination for the world’s most unique collection of shoes: RonWhite.ca

About Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation:

As the leading national volunteer-based organization dedicated to creating a future without breast cancer, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation works collaboratively to fund, support and advocate for relevant and innovative breast cancer research, meaningful education and awareness programs, early diagnosis and effective treatment, and a positive quality of life for those living with breast cancer. Founded in 1986, the Foundation has regional offices in BC/Yukon, Prairies/NWT, Ontario and the Atlantic provinces as well as a central office in Toronto. For more information, visit cbcf.org.

For more information, photos or interviews please contact –

Deb McCain Communications:
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com

___________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Free the Children launches GO Local youth empowerment program in 21 schools across Canada

Youth challenged to “change the world” thanks to inaugural White Knight Gala support

September 16, 2009 ( Toronto, ON) – Gang violence, poverty and drug abuse are on the rise across the country, especially among young people residing within communities in need.  Youth have long been identified as key to building healthy, safe and dynamic communities, and Free The Children has seen first-hand the power of young people to make a difference, no matter what their circumstances. Free The Children’s latest leadership initiative, GO Local, targets young people in resource-poor communities to act as agents of change who can, and will, make a difference for their community.  

With major support from RBC and with funds raised at the White Knight Gala, an initiative of Canadian shoe entrepreneur Ron White, the GO Local program will be offered free-of-charge to schools in priority neighborhoods throughout the Greater Toronto Area, with one school participating in a pilot program in Vancouver, BC. GO Local gives students a chance to learn about social justice issues while developing leadership skills enabling them to effect positive change in themselves, in their communities and beyond.  GO Local’s program includes: Motivational speaking tour, leadership training workshops, action planning and local volunteerism and social justice and networking events.

“The objective of the program is to encourage youth to take action to help improve their own lives and the communities around them,” says Dalal Al-Waheidi, Executive Director, Free The Children.  “This in turn translates into lower high school drop-out rates and fewer instances of violent behaviour in schools.  It’s a win-win situation!”

“I’m continually amazed that in less than a year we’ve established a foundation, hosted a sold out inaugural event and have funds which are starting to flow in our local community,” said Ron White, CEO & Creative Director RON WHITE and founder of The Ron White Foundation. “I am thrilled to be involved in something that will have an immediate impact in Toronto and Vancouver and look forward to seeing amazing results from inspiring youth as they participate in GO Local’s inaugural programming.”

"In partnering with Free The Children, we are really investing in youth and education to sow the seeds of a stronger future for our communities,” said Jennifer Tory, RBC’s Regional President for Greater Toronto Region.  “This new program, GO Local, is about empowerment.  It will help our youth realize their potential by giving them the education resources, leadership skills and confidence needed to effect positive changes in their own community and in their future endeavors.”

For more information on The White Knight Inaugural Gala, future events, photos and media coverage please visit: whiteknightgala.com

For more information about the GO Local program, please visit: freethechildren.com/GOlocal.

For more information on the program or to book an interview, please contact:

Deb McCain                                                                  Lindsey Coulter

416.402.5681                                                               416.528.9134

deb@debmccain.com                                                Lindsey@freethechildren.com

 ABOUT FREE THE CHILDREN

Free The Children is the world's largest network of children helping children through education, with more than one million youth involved in our innovative education and development programs in 45 countries. Founded in 1995 by international child rights activist Craig Kielburger, Free The Children has a proven track record of success. The organization has received the World’s Children’s Prize for the Rights of the Child (also known as the Children’s Nobel Prize), the Human Rights Award from the World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations, and has formed successful partnerships with leading school boards across North America.  Visit freethechildren.com to learn more.

 ABOUT THE RON WHITE FOUNDATION

The Ron White Foundation is a new registered charitable foundation that focuses on raising funds, awareness and education for human rights based issues both locally and internationally.  It was created by Ron White, a leading Canadian shoe entrepreneur with seven retail locations, who is well-known for his dedication to philanthropy, and is famous for his All Day Heels®.

Over the past 13 years, through his stores, Ron has operated an annual fundraiser in partnership with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and has run Canada’s largest Shoe Drive for the Homeless.  The Ron White Foundation is a culmination of Ron’s philanthropic endeavors. Through his Foundation, Ron now rolls together his dedication to give back and make the world a better place, with his love of fashion and shoes. Taking his annual giving to the next level, Ron has
assembled a talented and seasoned Advisory Board to help bring about White Knight, a fresh fundraising event.

For more information please visit: whiteknightgala.com.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________

 Press Releases 2008

***For Immediate Release****  

CELINE DION , HILARY DUFF, MICHAEL CERA,

MARY WALSH, GORDON AND LEAH PINSENT & TOM COCHRANE

JOIN RON WHITE’S 12 TH ANNUAL

SHOE DRIVE FOR THE HOMELESS

JANUARY 3, 2008 - Toronto, ON - Ron White welcomes actors Hilary Duff, Michael Cera, Gordon & Leah Pinsent, and Mary Walsh, along with singers Celine Dionand Tom Cochrane , to his 12 th Annual Shoe Drive for the Homeless. Now in its twelfth year, RON WHITE’S Shoe Drive For the Homeless is the largest in Canada and has collected and distributed over 14,000 pairs of shoes and boots for the needy in the GTA, with the help of many big-hearted celebrities*
[full list of shoe drive donors and alumni below]
.

Ron is also proud to welcome Canadian Idol’s Ben Mulroney this year, who joins past RON WHITE Shoe Drive alumni, including musical talents Chantal Kreviazuk and Jann Arden, actors Hayden Christensen and Kyle MacLachlan, World Champion Figure Skaters Kurt Browning and Brian Orser, and media personalities Jeanne Beker, Dini Petty, Monika Schnarre, and Leslie Roberts. All supporters have autographed and donated their gently worn shoes to RON WHITE - their shoes and pictures will be on display to promote this year’s Shoe Drive for the Homeless. The event kicks off this Friday - January 4th - and runs through February 10 th at all six RON WHITE locations across the GTA.

EVENT KICK OFF:Friday January 4, 2008

1:00pm RON WHITE, Manulife Centre, 55 Bloor St. W

Ron has been on a sole search for gently worn shoes and boots ever since coming across a homeless man 12 years ago whose tattered shoes exposed his frostbitten toes to the cold. RON WHITE’S Shoe Drive for the Homeless launched in 1995 and has donated over 14, 000 pairs of winter footwear since its inception. This year’s charitable partners include:

  • Out of the Cold

  • Red Door Family Shelter

  • Halton Women’s Place

“I am so proud to have the support of so many celebrities and media personalities,” said Canada’s Shoeru RonWhite. “They have helped to make our annual collection the largest shoe drive in Canada!”

White urges everyone to “follow in the footsteps of their favourite celebrity” and help the homeless. “Join us as we kick off the shoe drive at my Manulife store! It’s so easy - everyone has winter shoes and boots in their closets that they just don’t wear… and WE WANT THEM! Just bring them in and we’ll clean them up, sort them and get them out to those in need!

Gently worn footwear is being collected at all six RON WHITE locations in the GTA: Bloor & Bay, Yonge & Eglinton, Bayview Village Shopping Centre, Sherway Gardens & Downtown Oakville. Go to RonWhite.ca for more details, or call 416.739.1669 x1.

Media contact:

Deb McCain
416.402.5681
deb@debmccain.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR CHARITABLE PARTNERS:

Out of the Cold
416.699.6682
ootc.ca

 Red Door Family Shelter

416.469.3457
reddoorshelter.ca

Halton Women’s Place

905.332.1593
haltonwomensplace.com

RON WHITE Shoe Drive for the Homeless Donors

2008

Celine Dion

Michael Cera

Hilary Duff

Gordon & Leah Pinsent

Mary Walsh

Tom Cochrane

Ben Mulroney

Olympic Skater Jeffrey Buttle

Alumni

Monika Schnarre

Brian Orser

Seamus O’Regan

Carla Collins

Chantal Kreviazuk

Hayden Christensen

Dini Petty

Jeanne Beker

Rasho Nesterovic

Backstreet Boys

Jann Arden 

Kyle MacLachlan

Alan Frew 

Rod Black

Leslie Roberts

Christine Bentley

Anne Mroczkowski

Gord Martineau

Lou Diamond Phillips

Kurt Browning

Andrea Martin

Tonya Lee Williams