Few human body parts are subjected to the harsh treatment that homeless people's feet endure, say the homeless and their advocates.
On November 23, over 60 men at Wheeler Mission Ministries in downtown Indianapolis eagerly lined up for free shoes and socks, and medical foot exams by Methodist Sports Medicine / The Orthopedic Specialists. Colts defensive back, Antoine Bethea was also on hand to greet them and offer his hands on support.
"The economy has placed a significant strain on individuals and community organizations. We were fortunate enough to generate local and national support, which gave us the privilege to offer over 60 Indianapolis homeless men foot screenings and new socks and shoes," said David A. Porter, M.D., Ph.D. with Methodist Sports Medicine / The Orthopedic Specialists. "This was the first time that many of these men have been examined by an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist. I was impressed with the gratitude each one of these men expressed for our care and concern. They were also extremely excited to meet Antoine Bethea. We are so grateful for his support."
This event is part of a national effort that began in 2004 by a Pittsburgh organization called Our Hearts to Your Soles. Each year the organization assists thousands of men in almost 40 states.
The donation of shoes and socks for the Indianapolis event were coordinated by Our Hearts to Your Soles. The Colts and Methodist Sports Medicine / The Orthopedic Specialists also received support from local organizations including the Carmel, Indiana Walmart and Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics of Indianapolis.
