Footwear Donation Helps the Homeless Get Better Footing

A Pasco County outreach program is gaining regional recognition for its efforts to combat homelessness in the area. The ROPE Center, located in Hudson Florida, is a transitional housing facility providing shelter, food, clothing, and supportive care to single men and women. They also provide outreach services through the COR Center, also in Hudson.

The ROPE Center was recently selected by an international organization, Bombas, as the recipient of 1000 pairs of socks to be distributed to homeless in Pasco County. Each pair has reinforced seams for greater durability, an anti-microbial treatment to deter the growth of odor and fungus and darker colors to minimize visible wear. Moisture wicking socks are especially important for those facing the summer heat and humidity here in Florida, where homeless often walk several miles a day, and Bombas socks are specifically designed to pull sweat away from the skin and prevent infections and blisters. Socks remain the #1 most requested clothing item at homeless shelters but are not frequently donated. For every pair of Bombas purchased, the company donates a pair to someone in need. “We are incredibly grateful to have been selected as a recipient for Bombas socks and look forward to making sure they make a big difference in the lives of those who don’t have the luxury of having a clean pair of socks every day,” said Pastor Sue Campbell, Vice President of the ROPE Center.

The ROPE Center was also selected by Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s office as a featured charity of the month for September 2018. “The ROPE Center is one of the hidden gems in Pasco County,” states Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “The wonderful people who run this charity, Jim and Sue Campbell, do so with little fanfare or media attention, yet they get the job done. What is impressive to me is residents must have a plan, and must meet the goals of the plan, to continue living at the shelter. I encourage anyone who is interested in helping the homeless get on their feet to stop by one of our offices and make a donation. This organization is a perfect example of a little going a long way to bring help to those most in need.”

For more information about the ROPE Center, visit www.theropecor.org.