While care is given to most parts of the body, from the heart and muscles to hair and nails, the feet are often neglected. Problems with the feet can impact quality of life and lead to additional health concerns. That’s why organizations like the Jenkins Donelson Foundation (JDF), an award-winning, nonprofit, are integral in promoting foot and lifestyle health to the underserved. Its mission is to give away free essential items, such as shoes, socks, foot care supplies, clothing, beds/bedding, kitchenware, bathroom goods, personal products, housewares, school supplies and more.
The Foundation works with podiatrists and features interactive health fairs to offer easy and economical health tips. Its work with medical personnel to recruit pro-bono services at free clinics has helped immensely in the community.
Recognized for its work, the JDF earned the 2020 Fitness & Nutrition Award as “Foot Health Social Enterprise of the Year.” With a commitment to keeping people and feet healthy during the pandemic, it made a difference in unprecedented times.
According to a Stafford County client served by JDF in October 2020, “The Jenkins Donelson Foundation is doing wonderful things for communities when times are stressful. Not only do you receive much-needed items, but along with it comes a dose of love, compassion and understanding. You see and feel their joy of helping. Such a fantastic foundation!”
JDF Executive Director Carolyn Jenkins founded the national “I Love My Feet Day,” which is observed each August. She also created the blog site ilovemyfeetdays.com. Committed to spreading the message of good foot health for all, her heart and focus are with working with the underserved.
“The JDF serves from the bottom up,” she says. “Our feet are on the bottom, and they support our entire body. When we empower those at the bottom with the knowledge and tools to improve their health, they can improve their quality of life and the impact they have on society.”
For more information about JDF of Stafford, visit jdffeet.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/thejdf/.
