Footwear, Foot Care and More at Dorothy Day Place

Our Hearts to Your Soles: An Important Tradition at Catholic Charities

For 17 years, Our Hearts to Your Soles has partnered with Catholic Charities Twin Cities and other community partners to bring high-quality footwear, socks, and foot care to our Twin Cities neighbors who are experiencing homelessness. Each year, volunteers from Silverman Ankle & Foot, and Red Wing Shoes work with Catholic Charities staff to fit and distribute hundreds of pairs of socks and shoes. Each year, the event takes place in November as cold weather begins to set in. “We’re grateful for our long-time partnership with the Our Hearts to Your Soles team of volunteers,” said John Marston, Interim President & CEO, Catholic Charities Twin Cities. “The group provides not only critically needed shoes and footcare to our neighbors in need, but they also bring a caring and generous spirit to this community event.”

Now in its 17th year in the Twin Cities, this remarkable event returned to the Saint Paul Opportunity Center providing a wide range of benefits to participants, including:

  • Flu and COVID vaccinations administered by volunteer nurses from Fairview.
  • Foot care and consultations by physicians and specialists who examine feet, trim nails and calluses, and promote ongoing foot health.
  • A variety of Twin Cities lawyers provided legal guidance.
  • High-quality shoes and boots donated by Red Wing Shoes that help people experiencing homelessness stay safe all winter.
  • A Community of Care

    The event’s continued success is largely thanks to the vision of Dr. Lance Silverman of Silverman Ankle & Foot, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Silverman has spearheaded this effort for many years, working alongside more than 100 community partners to embody caring for individuals experiencing homelessness.

    “There are people in the Twin Cities who simply cannot afford to visit a doctor or to replace their worn-out shoes,” said Dr. Silverman. “Our Hearts to Your Soles provides an outlet for economically burdened individuals to receive the care and attention they deserve. As the temperatures continue to drop, everyone needs warm and protective footwear. This is a great way to help those in need in our community.”

    Eliot Berven

    Senior Communications Manager

    eliot.berven@cctwincities.org