The “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” event aims to bring awareness to the stigma associated with addiction and homelessness. It will feature a shoe memorial to honor family members who continue to struggle or have passed away due to substance use disorder, as well as those facing homelessness. The public is welcome, and children are encouraged to attend.
Steps of Change is a national initiative leveraging the power of families affected by substance use to:
– Break the silence, stigma, and shame
– Embrace evidence-based information and discard outdated beliefs
– Show families and loved ones impacted by substance use and homelessness that they are not alone
This year, we will display 237 pairs of adult shoes (based on LCCH Feb 2024 data) and 103 pairs of children’s shoes to represent those considered homeless by the Newark Schools system (2026). Over 200 pairs of shoes were displayed in previous years to honor those who succumbed to substance use disorder. We expect many families to bring shoes to represent their loved ones again this year. All shoes, except those donated in memory of loved ones lost to substance use disorder, will be given to those in need through the Newark Homeless Outreach and other local organizations.
Fun for all- Special appearance by K-Pop the demon hunter/Tiger, bounce house and other kid friendly things to do.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1242631021159903?