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Put yourself in the often-worn-out shoes of our unhoused neighbours in the Downtown Eastside. Living on Vancouver streets means walking and standing in puddles with your feet in a constant state of dampness, never really getting the chance to dry off.

These conditions can cause wounds, itching, painful sores, and cracked skin that can lead to infection. This is a medical condition called trench foot, also known as “street feet” for people experiencing homelessness.

To help bring relief, comfort and dignity, we’re bringing back our Foot Care program once we’ve settled into our new building.

We’re counting down the days until we open the doors of the new FIRST UNITED and there is so much to look forward to. With three times the space, we’re increasing our capacity to meet the growing needs of the neighbourhood. This gives us the opportunity to bring back foot care services.

Our Foot Care program models Jesus’ example of washing his disciples’ feet during the Last Supper. This humble act of love and service is one way we restore dignity to our neighbours in the DTES who rarely get the opportunity to be gently cared for and pampered.

Put yourself back in the shoes of a neighbour who is experiencing homelessness.

Imagine having the chance to sit for the first time all day. Getting out of those uncomfortable wet socks and worn-down shoes. Finally soaking your aching feet in soothing warm water. You smell the calming scent of essential oils…maybe lavender or tea tree oil.

The volunteer who’s helping you gives you a smile and asks your name. Maybe it’s been a while since anyone’s done that. You feel safe to chat. You can be yourself. You don’t feel rushed. You can relax.

When the volunteer dries off your feet with a soft towel, you’re given a thick pair of clean socks to help set you up for the rest of your day. 

You feel cared for, heard and seen.

Very soon, we’ll welcome people from the community into our new building. They’ll be able to access all of our services in one place.

Whether the programs are returning, existing or new, our neighbours will be able to experience dignity, belonging and justice.

And we’ll keep running our programs until we see our vision come to life: a neighbourhood where everyone’s worth is celebrated and all people thrive. Thank you for helping us get that much closer.