“They’ve been abused by the kids, spouses, whatever,” is how one Operation Sole participant put it.
On Sunday, May 5th, the Edmonton Police Foundation (EPF) and local sponsors partnered with the Edmonton Police Service Domestic Offender Crimes Section (DOCS) to treat 40 seniors affected by elder abuse to a shopping spree at Foot Locker.
“When you hear the stories, it brings a tear to your eye,” EPF Chair Ashif Mawji said.
Each senior was given $280 to spend on a comfortable pair of shoes.
Operation Sole is an Edmonton Police Foundation initiative that takes place every spring and summer to give youth, Indigenous women, and seniors, the chance to interact with police officers while building their wardrobe.
“Today they are feeling like people actual care for them, and that’s important,” Mawji said.
Special thanks to the Edmonton Police Foundation, Allard Foundation, TELUS, Real Canadian Superstore, Horsepower for Hope, Foot Locker, and all the officers who took part.