Reclink is synonymous with helping disadvantaged people to play sport, but now the not-for-profit is helping them access sporting equipment too.
“We managed to find over 2000 pairs of runners that are usable and we want to give them to people,” said Reclink founder and Wyndham local Peter Cullen of the new initiative which is based in Werribee.
Around 6000 runners have been donated to Reclink in total, with most going to landfill due to their poor condition.
However, Mr Cullen is hoping the 2000 pairs that are still good enough to be worn, will end up on the feet of people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford them.
“We’d be happy to hear from welfare agencies working with people experiencing a broad range of disadvantage – refugees, homelessness, mental health – to give them the shoes at no cost.”
In explaining why Reclink has branched out from football games to footwear, Mr Cullen said the cost of living crisis played a role.
“Our (Reclink’s) primary role has traditionally been sports programs, but what’s happening in the present climate with the economic pressure on families, many families can’t afford to have their children in sporting clubs.
But if we can provide sports equipment we can get people physically active and playing sport more informally like the old days, in the streets and parks and so forth.”
Mr Cullen said that while runners were their current focus, they were one the lookout for other sporting goods too.
“We’re also seeking more bikes and sports equipment leading into Christmas,” he said.
“If a bike is good enough for someone else to use, we’re seeking donations and volunteers to repair them.”
To donate or for more information visit: reclink.org/
Cade Lucas.
