Foot-Washers Need Shoes for the Poor

As WillBridge House prepares to organize its sixth annual interfaith foot-washing, its organizers are beating the bushes for new shoe donations to give to the homeless at the event, which is scheduled for Thursday, March 28, at the Veterans Memorial Building. WillBridge is a faith-based provider of housing and counseling to those in need and distress, and as part of its mission to the poor, hosts the annual foot-washing — in the spirit of Mary Magdalene — for the homeless. The event, spiritual in origin, addresses pressing practical considerations as well. The shoes of many homeless individuals are beaten and tattered, offering little protection against the elements or bacterial invaders. What the foot-washing starts, the donation of new shoes is designed to complete. WillBridge organizer Gloria Regan said new boots and hiking shoes in particular are needed, and she is reaching out to the generosity of the community at large. An expression of Easter spirit, the event also connects hundreds of homeless people with the wide array of organizations and service providers also in attendance. For more information, and to donate new shoes, please contact Gloria Regan at 564-1911.