Tsukihoshi Children's Footwear Partners With Autism Speaks

Tsukihoshi announced its support of Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, in its commitment to fund research that will help uncover the causes of, develop effective treatments for and ultimately find a cure for autism. With a strong history dating back to 1873, Tsukihoshi is the leading manufacturer and distributor of children's footwear in Japan. The brand joins Autism Speaks as a proud sponsor in the U.S. featuring its new Child 21 (KAZ) style during the 2013 calendar year.

"Our Child 21 style has a unique puzzle piece sole which we wanted to utilize in a way to help solve the puzzle of autism," said Tsukihoshi representative Matt Butlett , "As a company committed to children, Tsukihoshi is proud to be a sponsor of Autism Speaks."

The Child 21 MSRP is $57.00 and will be available next month at Nordstrom.com, Zappos.com, and specialty children's shoe stores across the country.

About Tsukihoshi

Established in 1873, Tsukihoshi is one of Japan's oldest footwear companies. For more than twenty years, the company has worked closely with orthopedic specialists and pediatricians to perfect the design of its shoes and promote the healthy development of children's feet. In the United States Tsukihoshi Children's Footwear can be found in higher-end independent children's shoe stores as well as Nordstrom, Amazon.com, Zappos.com, Piperlime.com and Shoes.com. For more information please visit www.tsukihoshi.com.

About Autism

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders - autism spectrum disorders - caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, as well as repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum - a 78 percent increase in six years that is only partly explained by improved diagnosis.

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright , the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed over $195 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 95 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships and related activities in over 40 countries on 5 continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.