Annual Event Gives Shoes, Socks, Free Foot Exams To Pittsburghers In Need
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Thousands of people all across the country will be a bit warmer this winter thanks to a group of Pittsburghers, and their generosity couldn't come at a better time.
6,000 pairs of Red Wing boots. 8,000 pairs of socks. The items are being handed out to people in need here in Pittsburgh and in more than 30 other cities across the nation.
This is the 10th annual "Our Hearts To Your Soles" event, started by UPMC Orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Stephen Conti and his family.
"Their feet have to carry them around in the winter during the cold months," Dr. Conti said, "so that's why we think this is important. Because we can identify foot problems and provide them with good shoes and socks that are going to prevent them from getting frostbite and other problems in the future."
Dr. Conti says the homeless often are on their feet all day. They need a sturdy pair of shoes.
He says foot health is incredibly important. Because of that, foot and ankle specialists were on site at Catholic charities downtown to do exams. Some, who don't have a permanent place to call home, say the help is appreciated, especially this time of year.
"This program is out of sight, it's really nice," Gary Patterson of the North Side said.
"I thought we were just going to be standing through a line, picking boots out," Forrest Payne of the North Side said, "but they're very customer friendly and very attentive to what everybody needs. I'm very impressed."
Flu shots were also available, thanks to a donation from the Passavant Hospital Foundation.
Dr. Conti says this is a tradition he intends to continue for years to come.
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