Jerry Fay
During the summer months, shoe donations have decreased; however, the need has not. As we enter the fall and winter months, the demand for shoes increases. The hope is that as snowbirds return, there will be an increase in donations. Regardless, everyone is encouraged to increase their donations.
Currently, the program is focusing distribution of shoes to three locations: Z Mansion, serving poor and homeless women, men, and children; the Salvation Army Hospitality House; and the Gospel Rescue Mission. Z Mansion currently provides a Sunday brunch and bag lunch for over 200 individuals, plus clothing, blankets, and limited medical services. The Salvation Army Hospitality House is open 24/7 providing emergency shelter for those in need. The facility, located near downtown Tucson, features a 104-bed facility with separate accommodations for men and women and two family apartments. The Gospel Rescue Mission serves men, women, and children who are poor, homeless, and living on the streets. They are provided with food, shelter, a shower, and a place to sleep. Their programs help individuals recover from their current situation to stable employment by moving from homelessness to self-sufficiency.
The following is a quote from one of the Z Mansion volunteers: “I wanted to thank you so much for dropping off the shoes. They are the most coveted clothing items at Z Mansion. Please thank all the pickleball and tennis players who contributed. Because of their generosity, many homeless people will be able to walk in comfort.”
Shoes of any type are one of the top needs of all homeless shelters and are in high demand. Obviously, the need far exceeds the number of shoes currently being provided, and if others in the SaddleBrooke community would like to donate used, wearable shoes of any type, there are two donation locations. Bins marked “Used Tennis Shoes for the Homeless” are located at the pickleball courts under the spectator bench and at the Tennis Center patio outside the rear door to the office.
Since the Shoes for the Homeless program began in 2018, more than 6,600 pairs of shoes have been donated. Most of the donations have come from the SaddleBrooke Tennis Club and the SaddleBrooke Pickleball Association.