By Mark David Blum, Esq.

Back during January of this year; the month I affectionately refer to as ‘Homelessness Awareness Month’ here in Onondaga County, the issue of ‘shoes’, specifically the lack of men’s shoes was brought to my attention.

At the invitation of the Rescue Mission and during a tour of their operation in Downtown Syracuse, I was startled to see a pair of boots atop a bookcase. Those boots had recently been surrendered by a member of the homeless community in exchange for new shoes. To see these boots instantly tells you the miles they walked and with every step, you can only wonder what keep them moving forward. Life is harsh; moreso for some than others. During the tour, I did as I always do and asked, “what do you need?” The bottom line was “shoes”. They need shoes … men’s shoes. People come walking in the door with no bottoms on their shoes, feet frozen, socks if any, are torn to shreds, and there are no shoes available. Some of these guys are picky and want a specific type of footwear and will go without instead.

One day, I had an idea. Had I known someone in the Shoe Business, I would have done the errand myself. Instead I reached out to local Television and Radio personality, George Kilpatrick, a man I know and respect, and one with tentacles far into the community. I explained my idea to Mr. Kilpatrick and got him off his oversized butt to find a shoe store willing to go along with my little plan. The Rescue Mission promised to manage it.

Then it happened. George found the owner of Salina Shoe Store who agreed to sell shoes to the Rescue Mission at cost. Friends of this website funded a $500.00 account at the Rescue Mission so that nobody should ever have to go shoeless in Syracuse. This way, the Mission has a running start should anybody walk in the door desperate for warm quality footwear. All I asked of the Rescue Mission was that they name the fund, the George Ruggaber Fund.

From everything I read and learned of the man since the day I first reported on his death, George Ruggaber enjoyed a life determined by his own choices. He did everything required of him and once complete, he was free to live and “be” in a world of his own desire. It is my understanding that he was financially able to afford housing but chose homelessness. Instead, he is reported to have given his own few pennies to those less fortunate than himself. From everybody who had contact with him, George’s heart was pure and he was a kind and friendly soul. Outward appearances deceived many about who he was as a man and a member of society. In his death, many were moved to re-evaluate their paradigms; me included.

For the many who will walk the same streets as did George, at least they will have shoes. Nobody will harass you at stop lights or in the Armory for a few pennies for footwear. At the same time, when and if you see a homeless person wearing a new pair of Nikes, don’t be jealous. In an instant, you could end up seated right next to him in your own brand new Reeboks. Ask me, I can tell you some stories.

I have asked little of those who read my blatherings. Everybody has their art; some sculpt, some paint, others can sing and dance. I write. It is how the demons and muses that dance about in my head can escape and I can show you the world as it seems to be at times. If you enjoy these writings, then this one time pay it forward. Contact George Kilpatrick at WSYR or Carolyn Hendrickson at the Rescue Mission and tell them you have a few dollars to contribute to the George Ruggaber Shoe Fund.

Please.