OSF, OrthoIllinois provide foot care for homeless on Holy Thursday

ROCKFORD (WREX) — On this Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, OrthoIllinois and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center upheld a four-year tradition by providing foot care to the homeless.

The event is inspired by the Last Supper where Jesus washed the feet of the disciples, a display of service and humility.

Each participant received a free pair of shoes, two pairs or socks, foot powder and free footcare. For the homeless, many rely on walking as their primary transportation. While many people may have many pairs of shoes, many people who are homeless often only have the shoes on their feet.

"When I give them a new pair of shoes, it's like giving you new tires on your car," OrthoIllinois Podiatry Surgeon Dr. Kelly John said. "They are such a grateful group. Every year it's so gratifying to know we provided this service."

More than 100 pairs of shoes were donated for this effort.