Life on the streets can be a drag on human feet, Sarah Redekop explains.
Homeless people spend a lot of their time walking and proper foot care can be a challenge for them. Each Friday, Streets Alive runs a program called “Foot Fridays” to help keep their feet healthy.
Retired physician, Dr. Earle Covert, is a volunteer that provides advice, cares for toenails and tends to foot problems. Covert says they provide this service because good health is needed from the bottom, up.
“If we don’t have a good foundation, you can’t expect anything from the top part of you.”
“The National Institute of Health says homeless people have a higher disposition to foot problems. Because much of their time is spent walking, in many cases with improper footwear, it can lead to a variety of health issues. Things like corns, callouses, ingrown toenails and athletes foot are all common. If these things are not treated early they can lead to more serious health issues.”
Foot Fridays allow those in need to come in for a warm foot bath and nail care.
Soiled socks are laundered and new socks and shoes are also given out when necessary.
Volunteer Mary-Gaye Pinches is an RN who specializes in foot care. Pinches says she has seen positive results from the care they provide.
“We have watched the people who need this service and their feet have improved 100 per cent.
Pinches says beyond keeping their feet healthy, the connections she’s developed are also important to her.
“They just love to come and we have relationships with them… It’s just fun… and good.”
Foot Friday’s runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Streets Alive. Organizers say items like clean socks and good quality shoes are in constant need. If you would like to learn more you can contact the Streets Alive Mission.
