Homelessness is a significant issue in Australia, with an estimated 122,494 people (abs.gov, 2021) experiencing homelessness on any given night in 2021, that’s almost 1 in 200 Australians. Those experiencing it often lack basic necessities such as clothing and footwear, contributing to the ongoing cycle of stress that occurs within their experience.
We Are Mobilise is a non for profit charity organisation, committed to providing functional care and support in the lives of people experiencing homelessness. Teaming up with Mobilise, the Brooks team set a plan in motion to get new shoes onto the feet of vulnerable Australians who need them most.
Through the collaboration, the Mobilise team linked up with Anne, from Concern Australia’s Steps Outreach Service. Anne was able to gather names and shoe sizes from our friends on the street to ensure people got a perfect fit. Our Brooks outreach was a huge success, resulting in the distribution of over 55 pairs of new runners, each with a personalised note and a pair of socks. The event brought smiles to the faces of many who received their new shoes, providing comfort, protection, and improved quality of life.
“It is common for most of us to take seemingly small things for granted, with shoes being one of them. Shoes provide comfort, protection from the environment, dignity, confidence and improved quality of life, but sadly, obtaining a good quality pair of shoes is extremely difficult for people that are experiencing homelessness.”
– Anne Mitchell, STEPS Outreach Service Manager
The importance of good shoes for people experiencing homelessness or especially those sleeping rough cannot be overstated. Shoes offer protection from the environment, prevent injury and disease, and most of all provide comfort. For our friends on the streets, a good pair of shoes can be life changing.
The team heard great feedback about the significance of this event, with many recipients expressing gratitude and happiness for their new shoes. For some, it was their first new pair of shoes in years. One recipient even commented that they felt like they were “walking on air” after receiving their new runners.
During the outreach the team connected with some amazing people who have lived experience of homelessness. It was a pleasure to chat with them and hear their stories.
“Mobilise has always been focused on starting conversations and bringing people together. We are very proud to be able to connect with Brooks to make a tangible difference for our friends on the street. We look forward to continuing to make an impact and more connections for change with Brooks and the STEPS Outreach going forward.”
– Noah Yang, Founder & CEO, We Are Mobilise
The collaboration between Brooks Running, We Are Mobilise and Steps Outreach is a great example of how businesses and non-profit organizations can work together to support vulnerable Australians. The event provided much-needed resources to those experiencing homelessness and brought some happiness and hope to their lives. We look forward to getting back out there and hope that this collaboration will inspire others to take action and make a positive impact in their communities.
We are Mobilise
Mobilise is a non-profit organisation dedicated to recognising and providing practical assistance to individuals facing homelessness. Equally important, we aim to raise awareness and educate the wider community, serving as a platform for driving positive change through connection.
You can find out more here or stay up to date with what amazing work Mobilise are doing via their Instagram.
