Debora Witten
On Feb. 4, the Dinking Divas of SaddleBrooke Ranch sponsored a shoe drive to provide shoes for the homeless in the Tucson region. Members of the Dinking Divas accepted donations at the SaddleBrooke Ranch Pickleball Courts between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. They were overwhelmed by the response with almost 900 pairs of men’s and women’s shoes being donated. Debora Witten has organized the shoe drive for three years now. The Divas who sorted and bagged the shoes, said, “We exceeded our expectations and want to thank all the SaddleBrooke Ranch residents who contributed shoes! Shoes are one of the most-needed items for the homeless.”
The shoes go to Gospel Rescue Mission Shelter Program located on a collaborative campus where over 30 social service organizations work together to holistically address mental, physical, and spiritual issues to move individuals from homelessness to wholeness.
* The Salvation Army Hospitality House, which is open 24/7 to provide emergency shelter for those in need. It has a 100-bed facility with separate accommodations for men and women, and two family apartments.
* The Z Mansion in downtown Tucson, where a weekly Sunday brunch and brown bag lunch are provided to more than 200 homeless people.
* The Casa Maria Soup Kitchen, a Catholic worker house, feeding over 700 people daily.
* Sister José Women’s Center, dedicated to the care of women experiencing homelessness in a welcoming and safe environment.
Workers and volunteers enjoyed the live entertainment provided by Andy Waddell.