&noscript=1 />

Dallas Homeless Receive New Shoes, Socks from Buckner

By Analiz González
Buckner International


(DALLAS, Texas) — The number of homeless is growing as the economy falls, so the president of Operation Care was glad to bring Shoes for Orphan Souls to be part of the biggest party for the homeless in the nation Dec. 14.

“We only had 300 shoes and it wasn’t enough for the event,” said Susie Jennings, president and founder of Dallas-based Operation Care. “I called Andrew and said, ‘I need shoes!’ and we were able to get 5,000 to distribute to needy children and adults.”

Operation Care offered the people manicures, hair cuts, coats, a hot meal, toiletries, Bibles and many other services and opportunities. They also shared the Gospel.

“We were happy to serve the homeless in our community,” said Rachel Garton, director of Shoes for Orphan Souls. “Shoes are a big necessity, especially in the winter time, and even more so for people without a home.”

Operation Care gathered hundreds of volunteers who distributed hygiene items and toys and offered family reconciliation services.

“There was one homeless guy who was lame and walking barefoot,” Jennings said. “I said, ‘Where are your shoes?’ Then I told him who I was — the president of the organization. So this guy who could barely walk, attempted to kneel down and kiss my feet. I said, ‘No, get up, I am not Jesus. I am not worthy of that. Get up!’ He was just so happy. It was incredible.”

Matt Asato, humanitarian aid coordinator for Shoes for Orphan Souls, and his wife Rachel volunteered at the event to help distribute shoes and wash people’s feet.

“Rachel and I were blessed to serve during the afternoon shift,” Asato said. “It’s definitely an awesome ministry that serves the least of these in our own backyard.”

For more information about Operation Care, visit www.operationcaredallas.org.

To donate a pair of Shoes for Orphan Souls, click here.

Add a Comment

Subscribe To Our Blog

Get uplifting stories of how you can shine hope in the U.S. and around the world!

We're excited to share with you all the ways you can shine hope to vulnerable children and families around the world. We invite you to stay connected with us while also growing in your own faith.

Click below to get the latest news, updates and invitations to exclusive events from Buckner. And, we'll send you spiritual encouragement through our weekly Faith Focus devotion. You won't find these stories and resources anywhere else!