These boots are made for walking … by the homeless.
A campaign by Mission Australia and NSW Police has produced hundreds of pairs of second-hand police boots which will be given to those without.
Officers from constable up to inspector supported the charity drive throughout the month of August.
Local Area Commands across the state donated their second-hand police boots in a drive which aimed to raise awareness of people experiencing homelessness and the issues they face.
At Springwood station last week, Geoff Spicer, program manager for Nepean Family and Youth Homeless Service with Mission Australia, took delivery of several boxes of boots which will be given to homeless people.
Acting Inspector Tracy Brickwood was pleased to take part.
“The Blue Mountains LAC is proud to support the Mission Australia charity drive. Many of our local police have kindly donated their second-hand boots to assist those experiencing homelessness,” she said.
NSW Police Central Metropolitan Region Spokesman on Vulnerable Communities, Superintendent Allan Sicard, said commands across the state threw their support into the scheme.
“The leather boots are very comfortable, they’re of great quality certainly have plenty of life left in them,” Supt Sicard said.
He said police worked closely with other government and non-government resources to deal with issues related to homelessness and to help with referrals to support services.
It was important to recognise that people experiencing homelessness were valuable members of our community who often had been left with impossible choices that have contributed to their living situations,” he said.
“There are many social, economic and health-related factors that can lead to homelessness. This can include a shortage of affordable housing, financial problems, relationship issues, unemployment, serious illness or drug/alcohol problems,” Supt Sicard said.
“Domestic violence is also a considerable issue that can result in homelessness.”
Mission Australia’s NSW State Director, Ben Carblis, said the partnership was a “great initiative” which helped homeless people.
“An adequate pair of shoes is something we often take for granted, but for those vulnerable people living in tough conditions, quality shoes are vital to manage foot health.
“This is one way we can ease the suffering of those who are homeless, particularly during the colder winter months,” he said.
