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Hundreds 'Walk A Mile In Her Shoes'

Event to support Women and Children's Shelter of Barrie

More than 400 people walked in support of the Women and Children's Shelter of Barrie and many were men wearing red high heels.

The 8th annual 'Walk A Mile In Her Shoes' event was held Saturday at Heritage Park and is an international men's march to stop domestic violence. 

$240 helps one woman and her child stay at the shelter for a week.

Organizers surpassed their goal of $40,000. 

Barrie Police were well-represented at the walk. 

"We're here supporting all of our victims of crime, particularly those women and individuals that are victims of domestic violence, sex assault and other forms of targeted offences," said Barrie Police Deputy Chief Ken Weatherill who walked with wife Shawna.

Inspector Robert Burke has walked in heels a number of times.

"We work closely with the Women's and Children Centre and they provide a vital service that's needed. Unfortunately it's needed, but for many of the women and children it's that lifeline that they need to get a step up and continue on. Hopefully one day we won't need to support something like this but right now we do and we'll do as much as we can," said Burke. 

"My toes are killing me," he laughed. 

MP John Brassard was trying to navigate in his red shoes even thogh he opted for a lower heel. It was the first time he had participated in the walk.

"It's never worked into the schedule but I really wanted to make a point of being here today. Such a beautiful day. A beautiful setting. . It's an important event. When you look at it, statistically, 67 percent of us know a woman whose been affected by physical, mental or sexual abuse.  You can tell by the turnout that this is an important issue for our community," said Brassard. 

Dressed as Snow White, Chris Venables arrived for his first Walk and was already feeling the effects of the shoes.

"Sore," he said of his feet after walking a few steps from the parking lot. 

Venables and friend Jeff Minnema both came for the same reason.

"Support the shelter. Any violence isn't good. I'm walking against violence period," said Minnema who was with his two-year-old son Jacob.  The toddler was wearing a yellow princess costume for the event.

MPP Ann Hogarth and MP Alex Nuttall were also in attendance. 

 


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Sue Sgambati

About the Author: Sue Sgambati

Sue has had a 30-year career in journalism working for print, radio and TV. She is a proud member of the Barrie community.
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