Nanaimo RCMP puts 'Happy Feet' on streets of British Columbia

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When an RCMP employee in British Columbia noticed that many vulnerable people in their community lacked proper footwear, he took action. Constable Josh Waltman who works in the Community Outreach Response Unit at the Nanaimo RCMP detachment, launched Project Happy Feet in 2021. Now, every last Friday of the month, people of all walks of life can drop by the detachment to pick up a pair of gently worn shoes.

"While working in the community we found that many individuals did not have adequate footwear, which is especially important when walking long distances during the day," says Waltman, who is a Mental Health Liaison Officer.

With donations from the RCMP and members of the community, the project quickly gained momentum. Today, people line up hours ahead of time to pick out their next pair of shoes. The heart of Happy Feet is about giving. There are no expectations, just a warm and welcoming environment for all. Each month, RCMP employees and volunteers organize dozens of pairs of shoes in all sizes, and distribute them based on individual needs, ensuring each person finds a comfortable fit. In addition to footwear, they also offer drinks, socks, and snacks. Volunteers from partnered organizations even offer to pick up and drop off people to the event, so those who might not be able to get there on their own, or who live far away, can still benefit.

According to Waltman, the process has shown to provide an opportunity for meaningful and supportive interaction.

"We have people who come sit down and receive their shoes and just start crying," says Waltman. "Some of these individuals haven't had a new pair of shoes in years."

Removing Barriers

Waltman says Happy Feet aims to meet a basic and critical need, while also helping remove barriers between the RCMP and the unsheltered population.

"Part of this work is to also make the more vulnerable population feel more comfortable coming to the detachment if they ever need anything," says Waltman. "Making the RCMP more accessible and welcoming is an extremely valuable resource, because it allows people to get to know their communities and those who serve them."

Waltman hopes to continue this project for years to come after, putting a lot of "happy feet" on the streets of Nanaimo and making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Happy Feet are always looking for donations of any size, but a men's size 10 or 11 is in high demand! If you'd like to support this initiative, please contact Waltman by email at joshua.waltman@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.