Sabu’s Cubs to hold second annual shoe drive on Aug. 16

North Point Douglas

Waverley Heights

One local grassroots organization continues to make a difference in the community — one step at a time.

Sabu’s Cubs is a volunteer-led, non-profit that’s committed to helping and supporting youth in the community, and building a stronger sense of belonging and well-being.

“We work out of North Point Douglas, and walk in the community every Wednesday,” said Siobhan Faulkner, one of Sabu’s Cubs’ three co-directors, noting the organization works in partnership with Community Helpers Unite to serve hot meals to community members in need.

“We focus on the invisible underserved, as youth. And when we say invisible underserved, this could include people who are confined to their houses or trapped at home with young kids. We focus on specific people in the community and others in the neighbourhood that might be forgotten by the world.”

Sabu’s Cubs is preparing to hold its second annual shoe fair, which will enable people to obtain a pair of much-needed new or gently-used shoes, Faulkner said, that will help “meet a basic need, but critical need we see every week.” One of the biggest needs is for adults who need a decent pair of shoes as they strive to re-enter the workforce.

“People in our community are walking in shoes that are falling apart, the wrong size, or simply not made for the weather here in Winnipeg. It’s about more than footwear — it’s about safety, dignity, and showing up in ways that let people know their well-being matters.”

The organization will gratefully accept shoe donations throughout July, as well as monetary gifts and donations of snacks and granola bars for its weekly walks. Items such as kids’ bubbles, sidewalk chalk, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and new socks are also appreciated.

The shoe fair will take place on Sunday, Aug. 16 from noon to 4 p.m. — while supplies last — at Michaëlle Jean Park at Norquay Community Centre at 65 Granville St. Email sabuscubs@gmail.com to arrange donation drop-offs or pickups.

Faulkner, who lives in Waverley Heights, said youth are welcome to join organizers on their weekly walks, so long as they’re accompanied by adults.

“We work hard with at-risk youth, and we want them to have a sense of self-worth, which is a big part of it,” Faulkner said.

During the walks, the contingent stops and observes two youth memorials — one in honour of Nicole Pangman and one in honour of Nathaniel Thorassie.

“We stop by two memorials of youth that have gone to the spirit world. We want people to know these kids and their families aren’t forgotten,” Faulkner said. “This way, the kids walking with us get to hear someone else’s story.”