Samaritan’s Feet is honored to mark Barbados as the 113th country served in our global mission to restore health and hope through proper footwear. Each new country represents another opportunity to share hope, restore health, and connect with communities in need, and we are deeply honored to extend our impact across the Caribbean.

In Barbados, we are addressing the rising health concerns of diabetic foot disease and preventable amputations. This work is made possible through strong local partnerships with Save Our Soles Charitable Trust, Comfeet Foot Care Clinic, and the Rotary Club of Barbados. Our partnership with Orthofeet, whose generous quarterly donations of orthopedic shoes have been instrumental, allowed Samaritan’s Feet to provide 4,000 pairs of orthopedic footwear to people in need. These shoes are improving mobility, reducing pain, and supporting those with chronic foot conditions, making a tangible difference in the lives of Barbadians living with diabetes.

With the support of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, this effort launched through the Shoes of Hope Program, a community initiative aimed at helping individuals living with diabetes gain access to protective and supportive footwear. Alongside the shoes, recipients also receive education on foot health to help prevent complications before they begin.

Samaritan’s Feet is excited to launch our Shoes of Hope program in Barbados, marking it as our 113th country served,” said Manny Ohonme, Founder, President, and CEO of Samaritan’s Feet International. “This initiative aims to improve podiatric care by providing properly fitted footwear to amplify better outcomes for patients living with diabetes and foot ulcers, with the goal of preventing unnecessary amputations across the island.

Seeing the joy on the faces of those receiving properly fitted shoes for the first time was truly a sight to behold. If this program can help end preventable amputations in Barbados, and one day across the Caribbean and the world, we’ll be one step closer to fulfilling our mission. Until we see a world with zero shoeless people, our work isn’t done.”

At the national launch event, medical leaders and advocates came together to highlight the program’s potential to save limbs and improve lives. Among them was Simone McConnie, a podiatrist and champion for diabetic foot care, whose firsthand experiences treating patients facing devastating amputations inspired her to lead efforts to improve foot health education and access across Barbados. Barbados has historically faced high rates of diabetic amputations, a challenge this partnership seeks to address head-on through preventive foot care and education.

This partnership represents more than distribution; it’s about dignity, access, and the possibility of a healthier tomorrow. As we reflect on this milestone, we are reminded that true transformation happens when communities come together in service of others.

We are thankful to all who made this initiative possible and look forward to continued impact across Barbados and beyond.