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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 18, 2008

Ankle & Foot Care Centers Launches ’08 Shoe Drive, Urges Shoppers to Reach out to Needy Families

BOARDMAN, Ohio (November 18, 2008) – In light of the slow economy, podiatrists with Ankle & Foot Care Centers are urging holiday shoppers to help the area’s less fortunate by buying and donating new pairs of shoes.

Ankle & Foot Care Centers, a group of 15 local podiatric physicians and surgeons, today announced the start of its 2008 shoe drive and hopes to collect more than 800 pairs of shoes between now and January 9, 2009.

Shoe collection stations are now in place at each of the group’s 19 locations throughout the region, all of which are accepting new or nearly new shoes.

“New shoes improve foot health and provide an emotional lift,” said Michael Vallas, practice administrator at Ankle & Foot Care Centers.

“With layoffs and cutbacks looming, some people will be forced to compromise on the proper care of their feet – which often leads to numerous other health problems. We’re confident that the generosity of our customers, doctors and staff will help us collect over 800 pairs of shoes this year.”

Since 1998, the podiatrist practice has helped local shoppers donate thousands of shoes to local needy families. In February, the Salvation Army will distribute the shoes collected this year to individuals throughout Mahoning and Trumbull counties.

Jean Malandro, director of social services for the Mahoning County Salvation Army, encouraged local shoppers to get involved.

“We believe the need will be greater this year because many people are out of work,” Malandro said. “We are very pleased to partner with Ankle & Foot Care Centers again this season.”

Ankle & Foot Care Centers’ 20 offices are located in Alliance, Austintown, Boardman (2), Campbell, Champion, Columbiana, East Liverpool, East Palestine, Greenville (Pa.), Howland, Kinsman, Lake Milton, Liberty, Niles, Poland, Salem, Struthers, Warren and Youngstown. Specific locations can be located on the group’s website, at www.ankleandfootcare.com.

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For more information, contact:

Michael Vallas, Practice Administrator
Ankle & Foot Care Centers Inc.
(330) 758-6226 ext. 207
mike@ankleandfootcare.com

Dan Pecchia
Pecchia Communications
(330) 720-6912
dan@pecchiacomm.com

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