RSVP 55+ has received funds through County Community Foundation grants in Greene, Boone, and Guthrie Counties and has partnered with Samaritans Feet Seniors, a project that centers around balance and falls prevention.
The grants have allowed the purchase of a certain number of shoes that will be given at no cost to registered individuals aged 60 and older and disabled adults who are or feel they may be at balance or falls risk in each county.
The project is also geared to help those individuals who find it financially difficult to purchase a good pair of walking shoes.
The lightweight, anti-slip shoes with Velcro closings come in a tote bag which also contains a hygiene kit and fall prevention and foot care information and a message of hope.
Each county has a pick-up day when registered individuals will pick up their shoes. They will first try them on to ensure they fit. For individuals who are mostly at home or town-bound or are without any possible way of transportation, arrangements will be made to get the shoes to these individuals.
For women who wear a size 12, and men who wear a size 14 or 15, athletic shoes will be provided.
In Greene County, recipients should register by Sept. 17 by visiting https://samaritansfeet.org/iowa/ Shoes will be distributed Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 1:30 to 2:30 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church, 801 W. Lincoln Way, Jefferson.
Persons who want more information or to register to receive a pair of shoes can contact the RSVP volunteer program coordinator in their county. Help others such as family members, friends, neighbors, acquaintances, church members or groups by sharing this information with them or providing the name and number of the county coordinator.
Boone County at 515-433-7836 – Michele Hull; Greene County 515-370-1099 – Sheilah Pound; and Guthrie County 641-431-0132 – Mary Porter.
