Pairing with Community for Boot Drive
“I was cold in my car and I thought he didn’t have enough clothes on to keep him warm,” she recalled. “My heart went out to this man who was asking for money. I am sure he had no feeling in his feet.”
To help the homeless in the city stay warm during the winter, Retsinas started a boot drive running from Jan. 4 to 12.
Containers were placed in each of the Service’s 17 divisions in addition to Headquarters (40 College St.) and Traffic Services (9 Hanna Ave.) where Service members and the public can drop off new or gently used winter boots.
Wendy Bhagoutie, the Women in Retail Charity representative at Walmart located at 2245 Islington Ave. in Rexdale, arranged for the donation of a large quantity of boots and shoes with the help of Walmart Shoe Manager Dolly Bhattacharijee.
“I am so glad we can give back to the community,” said Bhagoutie. “I love to do these kinds of things and be able to help.”
McGregor Socks, the Great Canadian Sox Company and Heat Holders contributed over 400 pairs of socks.
“The outpouring of support from Service members and the community has been overwhelming,” said Retsinas who has been with the Service for the past 23 years.
Retsinas, along with Const. Roger Mayers and other Divisional Policing Support Unit members, will pick up the containers and – with assistance from the Bargains Group – distribute the winter footwear to shelters across the city.
