Nearly half of the homeless population do not have access to properly fitting shoes, leaving them vulnerable during inclement weather. When a group of volunteers from Friends Feeding Friends got together to address this issue, Carrie Ann Davis initiated a twist on the usual gift trees found this time of year.

 

“We interviewed people in need around Harrison County and created a list of names, ages and genders who needed shoes,” she said. “Then we created a Christmas tree with shoe-shaped ornaments that had all the information on them for donors to sponsor.”

 

The shoe tree is housed at Stonewall Coffee, located beside the Harrison County Courthouse. Owners Kevin and Sarah Zakariasen were honored to be chosen as the hosts of the tree and have already witnessed a number of people interested in helping.

 

“We currently have 22 people in need of shoes and we ask that those who adopt them donate new or like-new shoes specific to the size, gender and age range on the ornaments,” said Sarah Zakariasen. “It is preferred that they are unwrapped and in a shoe box with the shoe ornament on the package at the time of donation.”

 

Donors can choose to remain anonymous or can include their identification. Socks, the most common need for the homeless population, are also encouraged.  As the season progresses and cold weather arrives, the group will consider adding ornaments for additional items in an ongoing effort to help those in need.

 

“When we donate the shoes, we will also be adding hats and gloves to the tree and possibly candy and other items to make the holidays special and comforting,” said Zakarieasen.

 

All shoe donations are to be dropped off by Dec. 7 at Stonewall Coffee and for those who would like to make a monetary donation, it can be dropped off at The Looking Glass Consignment Store on Main Street. Monies collected will be used to purchase shoes to donate.